Iran’s Missile Arsenal – Strategy, Range, and Threat

For decades, Iran has been systematically developing one of the Middle East’s most comprehensive missile arsenals. With both ballistic and cruise missiles, the country possesses weapon systems that span the entire spectrum—from short-range tactical strikes to long-range strategic missions. These missiles form a central pillar of Iran’s defense and deterrence doctrine. Below is an overview of the arsenal’s key components.

#1: Shahab-1 and Shahab-2 – Legacy of the Scud

Shahab-1 and -2 are among Iran’s earliest ballistic missiles, rooted in Soviet Scud-B and -C systems. Introduced in the 1980s, they have ranges of approximately 300 and 500 km, respectively. Although technologically outdated, they remain in use and are equipped with large warheads (~1,000 kg), making them effective against broad target areas.

#2: Qiam-1 – Mobile and Optimized

Qiam-1 is an advanced short-range missile without stabilizer fins—designed for improved re-entry and precision. With a range of about 750 km and a 750 kg warhead, it offers increased mobility and better accuracy compared to earlier models.

#3: The Fateh-110 Series – Solid Fuel and Precision

Fateh-110 marks Iran’s shift toward modern tactical ballistic missiles. Featuring a solid-fuel motor and GPS guidance, the missile has a range of 200–300 km. Newer variants such as Zolfaghar and Dezful extend this to up to 1,000 km. These systems are known for their precision and have been used in operations beyond Iran’s borders.

#4: Shahab-3 and Ghadr – Entry into the MRBM Class

Shahab-3 is Iran’s first true medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM), with a range of ~1,300 km. Ghadr and Emad are improved versions, reaching up to 2,000 km and featuring enhanced precision and control. Emad’s guided re-entry warhead significantly increases its accuracy.

#5: Sejjil-2 – Solid Fuel and Strategic Range

Sejjil-2 is Iran’s first two-stage, solid-fuel MRBM. With a range of up to 2,000 km and rapid launch capability, it provides strategic capability without relying on liquid fuel. Although technologically advanced, the missile’s operational status remains uncertain.

#6: The Khorramshahr Series – Strategic Weight

Khorramshahr missiles are heavy, long-range systems originally derived from North Korea’s Musudan. The latest version, Khorramshahr-4 (2023), boasts a 2,000 km range and a massive 2,000 kg warhead—though at the cost of precision and mobility. It uses liquid fuel and functions as a strategic platform, potentially capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

#7: Noor and Ghader – Coastal Dominance

These anti-ship cruise missiles are based on Chinese designs. Noor has a range of about 120 km and can be launched from ships, aircraft, and land platforms. Ghader, an upgraded version, reaches up to 200 km and includes enhanced electronics. Both are suited for use in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf.

#8: Nasr – Short-Range Threat

Nasr is a compact cruise missile based on the Chinese C-704, with a range of around 35 km. It is designed for quick strikes from small vessels or helicopters, mainly targeting smaller naval craft in coastal regions. Its strategic value is limited by its short range.

#9: Soumar and Hoveyzeh – Long-Range Precision

Soumar (unveiled in 2015) and Hoveyzeh (2019) are Iran’s most advanced land-based cruise missiles. Likely based on the Soviet Kh-55, they offer ranges of 700 km and 1,350 km respectively. These subsonic, low-flying missiles are designed to strike fixed targets far beyond Iran’s borders, though they have not yet been confirmed in combat use.

#10: Qadr-380 and Future Systems – A New Generation on the Horizon

In 2025, Iran revealed the Qadr-380, a new anti-ship cruise missile with a range exceeding 1,000 km. It underscores Iran’s goal of striking maritime targets from extended distances. The country also claims to be developing a supersonic cruise missile with a 2,000 km range—if completed, this would mark a significant leap in capability.

An Arsenal in Transformation

Iran’s missile arsenal ranges from 1960s-era Scud derivatives to modern, solid-fuel precision systems. Ballistic missiles provide powerful, high-speed strike options, while cruise missiles deliver accuracy and flexibility at lower altitudes. Together, these systems form the backbone of Iran’s military strategy—and represent a substantial threat to regional stability.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.