Iran tests new long-range missile
Imad ballistic weapon said to have guidance system enabling control until it hits target
TEHRAN, Iran — Iran announced Sunday it had successfully tested a new domestically produced long-range missile, which it said was the first that could be guided all the way to targets.
The defense ministry posted pictures of the launch of the missile, named Imad, on its website but no details were given about its maximum range or other capabilities.
“This is Iran’s first long-range missile that can be guided and controlled until hitting the target,” Defense Minister Hossein Dehghan was quoted as saying.
The launch comes months after some Iranian officials voiced concern that the Islamic republic’s recent nuclear deal with world powers could place limits on its missile program.
#Pictures of the moment when #Iran's new #ballistic #missile "Imad" was launched. pic.twitter.com/V4EWopGiqR
— Abas Aslani (@AbasAslani) October 11, 2015
Dehghan said mass production of missile would be followed by supplies of the weapon to the Iranian military, the semi-official Press TV reported.
A United Nations Security Council resolution adapted a few days after the nuclear agreement bars Iran from developing missiles “designed to carry nuclear warheads.”
“We don’t seek permission from anyone to strengthen our defense and missile capabilities,” Dehghan said.
Iran has said its missiles would never carry a nuclear warhead as it has no plans to develop atomic weapons, but military officials have insisted on expanding the country’s missile program.
The deal reached with Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States aims to limit Iran’s nuclear program in return for lifting international sanctions.
#Pictures of the moment when #Iran's new #ballistic #missile "Imad" was launched. pic.twitter.com/V4EWopGiqR
— Abas Aslani (@AbasAslani) October 11, 2015
Since 1992, Iran has emphasized a self-sufficient and indigenous military production industry, producing missiles, tanks and light submarines. The government frequently announces military advances which cannot independently verified.
The Islamic Republic already claims to have surface-to-surface missiles with a range of 2,000 kilometers (1,250 miles) that can hit Israel and US military bases in the region.
