Latest news with #Khorramshahr
The Irish Sun
29-06-2025
- Politics
- The Irish Sun
Iran was building warheads ‘capable of blitzing London' as twisted regime raced to have world's biggest missile arsenal
IRAN'S twisted regime was attempting to produce a terrifying two-tonne warhead which could obliterate London, Israel has warned. Tehran was said to be trying to build up the world's biggest ballistic missile arsenal to help them launch a global tirade of destruction, according to the Israeli foreign ministry. 8 Two Iranian ballistic missiles in the sky near Jerusalem at the start of the week Credit: Alamy 8 Footage posted to social media shows the moment an Iranian ballistic missile strikes an apartment building in Beersheba Credit: Twitter 8 The Kermanshah missile facility in Iran was left severely damaged in Israeli strikes Credit: AFP Officials in Tel Aviv said they successfully thwarted Iran 's plan to become the largest ballistic missile producer on the planet in tactical airstrikes alongside Donald Trump on June 13. The US struck Iran's nuclear programme and hit key nuke sites which were ordered by Trump who said they had "obliterated" the targets. But Israeli officials, who helped to orchestrate the "bunker buster" bombs with the US, have now revealed they also had a second objective in the weekend strikes . Oren Marmorstein, a spokesman for Israel's foreign ministry said: "We actually acted because of two existential threats. read more in Iran vs Israel "One was nuclear, and we acted when we did because Iran was at the 11th hour of being able to build a bomb. But the other was the ballistic threat." Tehran already boasted a concerning number of ballistic weapons prior to the conflict with US intelligence saying they had around 3,000 at their disposal. The latest Israeli intelligence though had pointed towards a much more dire figure emerging if Iran wasn't stopped. They claimed the regime was actively working on increasing production to over 20,000 ballistic missiles. Most read in The Sun Some even had a payload of one or two tonnes, Marmorstein said. The spokesman detailed the destruction which one missile could cause saying just last week, prior to the agreed ceasefire, four people were killed in the southern Israeli town of Beersheba in a missile strike. Inside Op Red Wedding – Israel's fierce wave of assassinations killing 30 Iran generals in first MINUTES of 12-day war "Imagine if Tehran sent 10,000 of those," Marmorstein added. "That threat was as existential to us as a nuclear bomb. "They were moving into industrial scale and about to become the number one ballistic missile producer in the world. "Some of these are intercontinental, which are not for us." He claimed these would have been able to reach into Europe with capitals such as London, Berlin and Paris all at risk. "They were getting closer and closer, almost to the point of no return ," Marmorstein said. Israel managed to wipe out dozens of missiles with more than half of their 300 missile-launchers also destroyed. A strike also targeted the military facility in Yazd which houses Iran's heaviest missile, known as the Khorramshahr. 8 A ballistic missile fired from Iran caused major damage to a residential block in Beersheba last week Credit: Getty 8 Israeli special forces check the remains of a ballistic missile found lying in northern Israel Credit: Reuters 8 Oren Marmorstein, a spokesman for Israel's foreign ministry, said Israel viewed the ballistic missile threat as as dangerous as the nuclear threat Credit: Fox The weapon is regarded as a copy of a North Korean missile carrying a two-ton warhead. The war in the Middle East lasted just 12 days as it quickly turned into a major conflict when Trump decided to strike the Iranian nuclear sites. The attacks helped to end the war with both Israel and Iran quickly declaring they had won the fight - despite Iran suffering a major blow to their nuclear capabilities. Despite a ceasefire being agreed, Trump has said he would "absolutely" consider bombing Iran again if it was ever needed. He told reporters in the White House he would "without question" attack the country if US intelligence pointed towards Iran enriching uranium to concerning levels. It comes as Iran held a funeral for the commanders wiped out in the war. The event was severely plagued by "Death to America" chants and the burning of Israeli flags across the day. Britain can never be safe against the threat of Iran if they aren't stopped By Chief Foreign Reporter, Katie Davis BRITAIN will never be safe until Iran's nuclear scheme is completely wiped out, Israel's ambassador told The Sun. Tzipi Hotovely said Israel did the UK a "huge service" by The diplomat said: "The Israeli people know they're facing a very radical enemy like the British people were fighting in the Second World War and that they must get to the point where it's being defeated. The Iranians have proven they have no interest in diplomacy. They were just using diplomacy to keep on running their nuclear programme. "And President Trump kind of lost patience with this type of behaviour. He said it clearly, I don't want Iran to have nuclear weapons. "We gave a chance to diplomacy. We backed up the American diplomatic plan - 60 days expired. "They didn't come to the table. That's what the Prime Minister said, they want to blow up the table, not to sit next to it. "And we are now certain that once this military operation is over, the world, the Middle East, Israel, Europe, everyone will have a safer world. "This is a war to end wars, not to begin wars." 8 Over a million people reportedly lined the streets of Tehran for the funeral of Iranian commanders Credit: Getty 8
Indian Express
24-06-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
‘Bunker buster' to ‘Khorramshahr': Missiles used by US and Iran in the war
The Middle East conflict has sharply escalated after the United States entered the fray by launching strikes on three key Iranian nuclear sites — Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow — three days ago. In retaliation, Iran targeted the US-run Al Udeid Air Base in Doha, Qatar. However, the attack was intercepted by American forces. Despite US President Donald Trump's announcement of a ceasefire, hostilities have continued unabated for the 12th consecutive day, with both Tel Aviv and Tehran exchanging attacks. Amid the ongoing war, here's a breakdown of a few of the bombs and missiles recently deployed by Israel, Iran, and the US, which have left hundreds dead, thousands injured, and many displaced. 'Bunker Buster' The US military deployed its most powerful non-nuclear bomb, the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, also known as the 'bunker buster.' This weapon, carried by the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, is specifically engineered to destroy deeply buried targets, including hardened bunkers and underground facilities. According to the US Air Force, the MOP weighs roughly 13,000 kg , stretches 20.5 feet in length, and can penetrate up to 60 meters of earth before detonation. It is encased in a high-performance steel alloy that allows it to withstand impact while delivering a massive explosive payload. Tomahawk Cruise Missiles Alongside the bunker buster, the US launched Tomahawk cruise missiles—long-range, precision-guided weapons designed for deep land-attack warfare. First used during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, the Tomahawk can be launched from US Navy surface ships, submarines, and UK Royal Navy submarines. In the latest offensive, they played a key role in damaging Iran's strategic infrastructure. Iran, which has repeatedly stated its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, responded to the US strikes and Israel's growing threats with an aggressive missile campaign. Sejjil Missile Iran deployed the Sejjil missile — a two-stage, solid-fuel, medium-range ballistic missile — to strike Israeli targets. The missile reportedly reduced large parts of Tel Aviv to rubble. With a range of 2,000 km and a payload capacity of around 700 kg, the Sejjil has a launch weight of 23,600 kg. In service since 2021, it is a key component of Iran's regional missile arsenal. Khorramshahr Missile Also used in the retaliatory barrage was the Khorramshahr missile, a liquid-fueled, medium-range ballistic missile believed to be based on North Korea's Musudan (BM-25) platform. The Khorramshahr is capable of carrying multiple warheads, with a maximum payload of up to 1,800 kg. It has an estimated range of 2,000 km, a length of 13 meters, and a body diameter between 1.5 to 2 meters, weighing between 19,000 to 26,000 kg at launch. With inputs from Missile Threat website, CSIS Missile Defense Project
Economic Times
24-06-2025
- Politics
- Economic Times
The Ghost Missile: How Iran's invisible Kheibar Shekan missile outran Israel's defences
Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads IRGC confirms missile use, hints at more to come Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Technical specs and range Popular in Defence Guidance, precision, and speed A stealthy, streamlined design Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Built over time, hidden in plain sight A strike that landed and shook Airspace shut, schools closed, public stunned A warning shot for the wider region In its 20th and most sophisticated wave of attacks against Israel, Iran fired a barrage of missiles and drones at key Israeli targets on 22 June, including Ben Gurion Airport and military command centres. But it wasn't just the targets that made the first time, Iran deployed the Kheibar Shekan missile—its most advanced, homegrown ballistic weapon—to send a message loud and clear: escalation is now on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed that it used the Kheibar Shekan missile in the attack, which it said was part of a broader 'strategic response to Israeli aggression.' The attack followed recent airstrikes by the United States and Israel on Iranian nuclear a direct quote reported by state news agency IRNA, the IRGC stated: 'This operation did not involve all armed capabilities yet,' indicating that more advanced systems may still be in to IRNA, the Kheibar Shekan missile belongs to the fourth generation of Iran's Khorramshahr missile family. It has a range of 1,450 kilometres and runs on solid fuel—giving it high mobility and faster launch times. IRGC engineers claim it can be made launch-ready in under 15 warhead weighs approximately 1,500 kilograms and is nearly four metres long. Its top speed exceeds 19,500 km/h outside the atmosphere and nearly 9,800 km/h within, which makes interception by Israeli defence systems like Iron Dome, David's Sling, or even the US-made Patriot systems extremely earlier Iranian missiles, the Kheibar Shekan uses satellite navigation and a new guidance system. It also features a Maneuverable Reentry Vehicle (MaRV) that allows it to zigzag through the atmosphere before hitting its makes it not only fast, but also hard to track and sources say it passes through three phases: an initial launch and flight, then warhead guidance using rear thrusters, and finally re-entry, where onboard engines adjust the final course while maintaining speeds above Mach have removed ailerons from its exterior, reducing drag and enhancing stealth. The engine—named 'Arond'—is built inside the fuel tank to make the missile shorter and harder to can be launched from a mobile platform and is believed to be deployable from multiple locations, complicating Israel's response development of this missile series started in 2017 with the unveiling of the Khorramshahr-1. Later versions included Khorramshahr-2 in 2019, and the Khorramshahr-4 in 2023. Iran has never publicly confirmed the third generation, Khorramshahr-3, though military officials have acknowledged its existence, hinting at 'advanced capabilities that have not been disclosed for security reasons.'Kheibar Shekan means 'Breaker of Khyber' in Arabic—a name loaded with historical significance for Iran. It refers to the 7th-century Battle of Khyber between Muslims and Jews in Arabia, where Imam Ali bin Abi Talib played a pivotal name, steeped in Shiite history, isn't just symbolism—it's part of how Iran frames its conflict with Israel. The missile was earlier used during 'Sadiq Promise 1' in April 2024 and again in 'Sadiq Promise 2' in October, as reported by Western to Iranian claims, this latest strike disrupted Israel's air traffic, damaged several military and research facilities, and triggered chaos in cities like Haifa and Tel buildings were reported destroyed in the Ramat Gan district of Tel Aviv, while explosions were reported in Haifa. Israeli emergency services confirmed 23 injuries, including three serious cases and a teenager. A woman died from a heart attack in Karmiel during the defence sources told local media that at least 18 out of 30 Iranian ballistic missiles evaded interception—'the highest percentage of successful hits this year.'Flights were suspended at Ben Gurion Airport. Schools were shut. Public gatherings were banned. Residents were urged to take shelter in underground bunkers as defence sirens rang across major Israel said no 'major damage' was caused to its military bases, the psychological and operational impact was strike wasn't just about Israel. It signals wider regional intentions. Tehran has long relied on allied militias—Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and armed groups in Iraq—to exert influence beyond its borders. Analysts believe these groups may soon ramp up pressure on US and allied forces across Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and even the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world's oil passes, could be blocked. Oil prices would surge. Shipping lanes through the Red Sea and Persian Gulf would become unsafe. Rerouting global cargo would mean higher freight costs, delivery delays, and disrupted supply tensions rise, capital may flee the region, putting fragile economies at further Kheibar Shekan isn't just a missile—it's a declaration. Built for speed, stealth, and accuracy, and grounded in ideological legacy, it marks a leap in Iran's missile technology. Its battlefield debut, aimed at Israel's critical infrastructure, suggests Tehran is prepared for a longer, riskier game. And as the fallout spreads across defence systems, global trade, and diplomacy, the world is watching not just for what was fired—but for what might come next.
Express Tribune
23-06-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
What makes Iran's Sejil missile a regional game-changer?
Listen to article Iran's long-range Sejjil ballistic missile is in the spotlight following its reported deployment during the recent 'True Promise 3' operation targeting Israel, underscoring Tehran's advancing missile capabilities, Mehr news agency reported. What is Sejjil? The Sejjil, a solid-fuel, two-stage ballistic missile, is widely regarded as one of the most sophisticated assets in Iran's arsenal. Capable of carrying a 650 kg warhead, the missile has a reported range that enables it to strike targets such as Tel Aviv from Iranian territory in under 10 minutes, according to military analysts. The missile's use of solid propellant reduces launch preparation time, making it more difficult for enemy defence systems to intercept. Significance Its speed and range place it among the most strategic weapons in Iran's inventory, playing a central role in the country's deterrence doctrine. Military experts consider the Sejjil a key symbol of Iran's regional missile power, with its development marking a significant milestone in the nation's defence industry. According to The National Interest in a 2017 report, the Sejjil was considered Iran's most advanced missile prior to the unveiling of the Khorramshahr system. The upgraded Sejjil-2 features a faster launch process and improved warhead design over its predecessor, the Sejjil-1. Experts suggest these upgrades have significantly enhanced Iran's rapid-strike potential. A senior Israeli defence analyst warned that intercepting Sejjil missiles would pose a challenge for Israeli missile defence systems due to the missile's high velocity and solid-fuel propulsion.
Euronews
23-06-2025
- Politics
- Euronews
What is the Kheibar Shekan missile, the latest weapon used by Iran?
The IRGC today announced it had deployed the Kheibar Shekan, Iran's latest long-range solid-fuel ballistic missile, indicating that the attack did not include "all armed capabilities yet", signalling the possibility of future escalation. According to state-run news agency IRNA, the Kheibar Shekan missile belongs to the fourth generation of the Khorramshahr family of ballistic missiles, with a range of 1,450 kilometres. It is considered one of the most prominent technical developments in the Iranian missile system, boasting a high degree of accuracy thanks to a satellite guidance system, in addition to manoeuvrable warheads. The high-explosive warhead weighs about 1,500 kilograms and is up to four metres long. At the same time, the missile has a speed of more than 19,500 km/h outside the atmosphere and nearly 9,800 km/h inside it, making it very difficult to intercept even for advanced defence systems such as Patriot and David's Sling. Sequential development The first version of the missile dates back to 2017, when Tehran unveiled the Khorramshahr-1, which was 13 metres long and 1.5 metres in diameter, at a military parade on the occasion of "Holy Defence Week". The second generation "Khorramshahr-2" appeared in 2019, with guided warheads and a total weight of 20 tonnes, followed by the fourth generation "Khorramshahr-4" in May 2023, without Iran revealing the details of the third generation "Khorramshahr-3". However, military sources confirmed that it exists and has advanced capabilities that have not been disclosed for security reasons. The Kheibar Shekan is characterised by design features that reduce its ability to be monitored or intercepted, most notably the absence of ailerons, which reduces the area of friction and increases its speed and accuracy. The missile relies on a local engine called "Arond", which is integrated inside the fuel tank to reduce length and increase camouflage. It is launched from a mobile platform and can be prepared for launch in under 15 minutes. The missile operates in three operational phases: takeoff and flight, then guiding the warhead with rear engines after separation, and ending with entry into the atmosphere, where the final guidance engines are activated while maintaining a speed of more than Mach 8. Symbolic and ideological significance The Kheibar Shekan missile derives its name from Arabic, meaning "Breaker of Khyber", a reference to the historical battle of Khyber between Muslims and Jews in Arabia. Imam Ali bin Abi Talib played a prominent role in the battle, which gives the name special religious significance among the Shiite community, and reinforces the Iranian narratives couching the conflict with Israel in a "historical and ideological" context. The Kheibar Shekan was previously used in the "Sadiq Promise 1" attacks in April 2024 and "Sadiq Promise 2" in October of the same year, according to Western media reports, reflecting Iran's increasing reliance on this model in its long-range operations.
