Ballistic missile proliferation is a significant concern in the Middle East. Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan have closely associated themselves with the United States. These nations are targets of American adversaries such as Iran, Syria, and terrorist groups. Findings of this study revealed the following: First, the U.S.’s role in theater ballistic missile defense (TBMD) development and implementation in the Middle East is defined by its shift of the defense systems from its homeland to the region. Second, the possible avenues that could facilitate the development of a comprehensive and integrated TBMD system include facilities, training, exercises, and logistic support. Third, the current challenges in Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan that are hindering the development include financial constraints, obligations associated with the creation of such a defense system, domestic politics, foreign policy, inefficiency associated with such a system, and strategic asymmetries. Fourth, the following vital ways these countries could cooperate include the transfer of advanced defense technologies, enhanced operational coordination, multilateral planning, alliance coordination mechanism, and intelligence and surveillance sharing.

Subjects: theater ballistic missile defense; Middle East; collective security; weapons of mass destruction