Satellite photos show that the United States has removed a significant number of its advanced missile defense systems and Patriot missile batteries from Saudi Arabia in recent days. Photos that were obtained and published by The Associated Press showed that the Prince Sultan Air Base previously had a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) unit, another missile defense system, and Patriot missiles provided by the United States. But those batteries are no longer at the base, according to satellite photos taken in late August and reviewed by the AP. “The Defense Department continues to maintain tens of thousands of forces and a robust force posture in the Middle East representing some of our most advanced air power and maritime capabilities, in support of U.S. national interests and our regional partnerships,” Pentagon spokesman John Kirby told the outlet in response to questions about the move. The Epoch Times has contacted the …https://www.theepochtimes.com/c-us-politics