👉 The Intermediate-Range Missile (IRM) system, commonly referred to as "def missiles," is a U.S. missile defense system designed to intercept and destroy short- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) and cruise missiles. It consists of a network of ground-based interceptors, typically Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) systems, strategically positioned across the United States and its allies. These interceptors use advanced sensors and radar to detect incoming threats, then fire missiles equipped with kinetic energy (kinetic kill) or hypervelocity (thermal ablation) weapons to destroy the targets before they reach their intended ground objectives. The IRM system is a critical component of the U.S. missile defense architecture, aimed at protecting against potential threats from adversaries like North Korea and Iran.
