by Mindy Aguon

Guam - A Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System (THAAD) ballistic missile defense system is coming to Guam in the coming weeks. The Department of Defense made the announcement today saying it is a precautionary move to strengthen the regional defense posture against the North Korean regional ballistic missile threat.

The system consists of a truck-mounted launcher, a complement of interceptor missiles, an AN/TPY-2 tracking radar and an integrated fire control system. The DOD said the deployment will strengthen defense capabilities for American citizens in the U.S. territory of Guam and U.S. forces stationed here. North Korea has been urged to stop its threats and rhetoric and comply with international obligations.

The announcement of sending the THAD system comes as Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel met with Republic of Korea's Minister of Foreign Affairs Yun, Byung-Se at the Pentagon today. Pentagon Press Secretary George Little says Hagel congratulated Yun on his appointment as foreign minister and discuss the unwavering American commitment to the U.S. alliance with the Republic of Korea.

A readout from Little went on to state, "The secretary expressed his gratitude to Minister Yun for hosting Deputy Secretary of Defense Ash Carter during his recent trip to South Korea and told the minister he is encouraged by the high level of consultation between both governments.

"Secretary Hagel reaffirmed to Minister Yun that the United States' enduring defense and extended deterrence commitments to South Korea will not change and that it is our duty to remain vigilant during this time of heightened tension on the Korean Peninsula."