Iran increases precision of indigenous missile

A high-ranking military commander says Iranian experts have enhanced the precision of domestically-designed and manufactured Khalij-e Fars (Persian Gulf) supersonic anti-ship ballistic missile to 8.5 meters.

Commander of the Aerospace Division of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Brigadier General Amir-Ali Hajizadeh said Iranian defense experts have increased the precision of the missile to less than 8.5 meters, down from the previous figure of 30 meters which was registered during its successful test in July 2012.

He noted that the delivery of Khalij-e Fars anti-ship ballistic missiles to the IRGC naval forces has prompted transregional countries to consider ending the mission of their warships in the Persian Gulf.

Khalij-e Fars supersonic anti-ship ballistic missile reportedly has a range of 300 kilometers (186 miles). It is equipped with a 650-kilogram explosive warhead, and benefits from a combination of guidance systems to evade interception.

While most cruise missiles travel at supersonic or high subsonic speeds, Khalij-e Fars missile is fired like other ballistic missiles, but is able to detect its targets and hit them in a vertical manner.

In recent years, Iran has made great achievements in its defense sector and has attained self-sufficiency in producing essential military equipment and systems.

Tehran has repeatedly assured other nations that its military might poses no threat to other countries, saying that the Islamic Republic’s defense doctrine is based entirely on deterrence.