Aegis Ashore is a land-based missile defense system designed to protect against short- to intermediate-range ballistic missiles. It is part of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense program, which originally focused on naval platforms. The system uses advanced radar and interceptor missiles to detect, track, and destroy incoming threats. The first operational Aegis Ashore site was established in Romania in 2016, with another planned for Poland. These installations enhance NATO's defensive capabilities and contribute to regional security by providing a protective shield against potential missile attacks.