Iran Unveils New Ballistic Missile Capable of Reaching 1,700 Kilometers
New Development in Iran’s Ballistic Missile Programme
Iran revealed a new ballistic missile on Sunday, dubbed Etemad, or “trust” in Persian, which it claims is capable of traveling 1,700 kilometers. The unveiling ceremony took place in Tehran and was attended by President Masoud Pezeshkian.
Range and Capabilities
According to state television, the Etemad missile is the “most recent ballistic missile” built by the Iranian defence ministry. Its range and capabilities have sparked concerns in Western countries, who accuse Iran of destabilising the Middle East. The missile is capable of reaching its arch-foe Israel, which it targeted twice last year during the Gaza war.
Purpose of Development
In a televised address, President Pezeshkian stated that the development of defence capabilities and space technologies aims to ensure that no country dares to attack Iranian territory.
New Satellites Presented
In addition to the ballistic missile, three domestically produced satellites were also presented at the ceremony: a communications model called Navak, and updated versions of the Pars-1 and Pars-2 imaging models. These satellites are designed to monitor “the environment, emergency situations, and urban management”.
Ceremony Significance
The ceremony took place on Iran’s national aerospace day and just a few days before the 46th anniversary of the creation of the Islamic republic on February 10, 1979. The timing of the event has been interpreted as a show of force, coinciding with Iran’s increasing assertiveness on the international stage.
Military Development and Diplomacy
Since the return of US President Donald Trump, Iran has made multiple shows of force, including large-scale military exercises and the presentation of underground military bases. In a separate event, Iran also revealed a new model of cruise missile on Saturday, called the Ghadr-380, which has “anti-jamming capabilities” and a range of more than 1,000 kilometers.
Despite these displays of military might, Iran has also signalled its willingness to restart negotiations over its nuclear programme, which has been a source of tensions with Western countries for decades.
Background
Iran, once a major recipient of military aid from the United States, was forced to develop its own weaponry after Washington cut off ties and imposed sanctions following the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Having been under an arms embargo during its devastating war with Iraq between 1980 and 1988, Iran has since developed a substantial arsenal of domestically produced weapons, including missiles, air defence systems, and drones.
Conclusion
The unveiling of the Etemad missile marks a significant development in Iran’s ballistic missile programme, demonstrating its capabilities and resolve to develop its own defence technology. The event has been seen as a show of force, coinciding with Iran’s increased assertiveness on the international stage. The future of Iran’s nuclear programme and its relationships with Western countries remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Iran is a force to be reckoned with.
FAQs
Q: What is the range of the Etemad missile?
A: The Etemad missile has a range of 1,700 kilometers.
Q: What is the purpose of Iran’s ballistic missile programme?
A: According to President Pezeshkian, the programme aims to ensure that no country dares to attack Iranian territory.
Q: What other defence technology has Iran developed?
A: Iran has developed a substantial arsenal of domestically produced weapons, including missiles, air defence systems, and drones.
Q: What is Iran’s stance on its nuclear programme?
A: Iran has signalled its willingness to restart negotiations over its nuclear programme, despite ongoing tensions with Western countries.