Missile defence systems in the Pacific

The U.S. and its Pacific allies could intercept North Korean missiles launched in the direction of Guam, but much of the technology is yet to be battle-tested and experts say there is no guarantee it will work

Possible launch site
SOUTH KOREA
CHINA
NORTH KOREA
JAPAN    Japanese Navy destroyers
Shimane, Hiroshima, Ehime and Koichi prefectures

ALASKA (U.S.)  Fort Greely
CANADA
U.S.     Vandenberg, California

Hwasong-12 range 4,800km
Guam: U.S. territory and military base
U.S. destroyers along missile flight path
PACIFIC OCEAN


Aegis: Ship-based SM-3 interceptors engage enemy missile in midcourse phase, above Earth’s atmosphere

Patriot: Short-range PAC-3 system can shoot down slower missiles in final phase of flight

THAAD*: Radar could track hostile missile launch. Interception occurs as missile re-enters atmosphere

Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD): Total of 36 interceptors designed to protect U.S. mainland

Hwasong-12: North Korea planning to fire four intermediate-range ballistic missiles to splash into ocean about 30-40km from Guam


Sources: Missile Defence Agency, NYT *Terminal High Altitude Area Defense © GRAPHIC NEWS