What are Iran's ballistic missile capabilities?

What Are Ballistic Missiles?

Ballistic missiles are weapons that are launched into a high arc and hit targets at long distances.

They can carry conventional explosives or, potentially, nuclear warheads if developed.

These missiles travel outside the atmosphere before re-entering to strike their target.

Iran’s Ballistic Missile Arsenal

Largest in the Middle East

Iran has one of the largest stockpiles of ballistic missiles in the region.

Its missiles vary in range and capability, designed for deterrence and defence.

Range and Reach

Iran has a self-imposed limit of around 2,000 km range on many missiles, though some may go slightly beyond.

This range allows Iranian missiles to reach parts of the Middle East, including Israel and U.S. military bases in the region.

Types of Iranian Ballistic Missiles

Short and Medium-Range Missiles

Fateh-313 – A short-range missile (up to about 500 km), useful in regional conflicts.

Shahab-3 – A medium-range ballistic missile (about 1,000–2,000 km) that forms a core part of Iran’s missile force.

Longer-Range and Advanced Types

Iran also fields longer-range variants like the Sejil and Ghadr, with ranges approaching 2,000 km or more, capable of striking distant targets.

Tehran has shown hypersonic missile projects (like the Fattah-2), which aim for very high speeds and agility, making them harder to intercept.

Missiles in Recent Use

During conflicts such as the 2025 war with Israel, Iran fired ballistic missiles that hit targets inside Israel, causing damage and casualties.

Iran has also used missiles against U.S.-led forces in the region when responding to attacks such as the killing of Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani.

Missile Strategy and Purpose

Iran says its missiles are meant to deter attacks from regional rivals like Israel and the United States.

Much of its missile production and deployment is seen as a key part of national defence policy.

Underground Missile Infrastructure

Iran has built underground missile bases and “missile cities” to protect launchers from attack. These facilities help store and fire missiles even under conflict conditions.

Technical Support and Development

Iran’s missile technology is partly developed using knowledge from partners like North Korea and Russia, and sometimes with assistance from China.

It has also improved guidance, range, and survivability through reverse-engineering and innovation.