(VOVworld) – South Korea and the US are discussing the deployment the THAAD missile defense system following North Korea’s claim that it has successfully launched a long range rocket carrying an Earth observation satellite. THAAD is the U.S.-made Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system, which can target short, medium and intermediate ballistic missiles in flight.

This handout image courtesy of the US MIssile Defense Agency shows the launch of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile during a test. (Photo: AFP)

Yoo Jeh-seung, Head of Defense Planning, South Korean Defense Ministry, told reporters on Sunday that the deployment will enhance the South Korea- US alliance's existing missile defense capabilities.

On Monday, the South Korean Navy fired warning shots at a North Korean patrol boat that crossed the Northern Limit Line in the Yellow Sea. The patrol boat retreated quickly afterward.