Iron Dome Interceptors Deployed for First Time Outside US in Guam Amid Pacific War Drills

Iron Dome's Tamir interceptors have been deployed for the first time outside the United States during the Valiant Shield 2026 military exercise on Guam. This deployment is part of joint US and allied drills simulating conflict scenarios with China in the Pacific region. The system used is the MRIC, acquired by the US Marine Corps, equipped with American radar and command systems, and mounted on trailers carrying 20 Sky Hunter interceptors, the US version of the Tamir missile jointly produced by Rafael and Raytheon in Arkansas.

Rafael and Raytheon secured a $380 million contract to supply the new interceptor system for three Marine air defense battalions, expected to enter service between 2026 and 2028. To accelerate delivery, Israeli-made interceptors were also provided to the Marines until US production ramps up. The Sky Hunter missile has a range of 4 to 70 kilometers and can engage cruise missiles, rockets, drones, fighter jets, and helicopters.

Previously, the Marines relied on US Army Patriot and THAAD systems, but the Pentagon has recognized these may not always be available or effective against the growing threat of inexpensive drones, cruise missiles, and precision rockets. The Tamir interceptor has been upgraded to counter cruise missiles and has some capability against ballistic missiles. Guam hosts US bombers and refueling aircraft and lies within range of Chinese medium-range ballistic missiles. The exercise will test the ability to defend against this threat.