The U.S. has deployed missile defense equipment to the Pacific in preparation for a possible North Korean long-range missile launch.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates told reporters Friday that he has ordered the deployment of the Theater High Altitude Area Defense missiles to Hawaii and the sea-based SBX Radar near the island state to protect it from a missile North Korea is reportedly planning to launch.

He said the U.S. is closely watching the situation in the North, expressing concerns that Hawaii could be within the range of the North’s missiles.

Pyongyang launched a long-range ballistic missile on April fifth. According to U.S. intelligence, the missile was unable to transition from the second to the third stage --- a transition which is considered essential if a North Korean rocket is to have the capability of hitting the U.S. mainland.