Iran announces successful test launch of a ballistic missile

Iran announced that it had successfully test-fired a ballistic missile with a potential range of 2,000 kilometers on Thursday.

This was reported by Reuters, according to Iranian state media.

Iranian state television showed a few seconds of video of the launch of an upgraded version of the Iranian ballistic missile "Khoramshahr-4" with a range of 2000 km, capable of carrying a warhead weighing 1500 kg.

The state news agency IRNA reported that the liquid-fueled missile was named "Kheibar," a reference to a Jewish castle captured by Muslim warriors in the early days of Islam.

"The outstanding characteristics of the domestically produced Kheibar missile include quick preparation and launch time, making it a tactical weapon in addition to a strategic one," the Iranian press reported.

Iran, which has one of the largest missile programs in the Middle East, claims that its weapons are capable of reaching bases in the region of its sworn enemies, Israel and the United States. Despite the American and European positions, Iran says it will continue to develop its "defensive" missile program.

"Our message to Iran's enemies is that we will defend the country and its achievements. Our message to our friends is that we want to help regional stability," said Iranian Defense Minister Mohammadreza Ashtiani.

Author - Olena Madiak, 26/05/2023