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Amid high tensions with Israel, Iran’s missile programme comes into focus

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 15)

Topic: GS2International Relations
Context
● Iran’s missile programme, long seen as a key element of its defence, faced scrutiny after a largely unsuccessful April 2024 assault on Israel.

Despite launching hundreds of projectiles, many failed or were intercepted, raising questions about their reliability as effective military tools, especially amid escalating tensions with Israel.

 Iran’s Missile Programme: Key Points:

Everything You Need To Know About

  • Origins: Iran’s missile programme began in the 1980s during the Iran-Iraq War. Over time, it has become a core element of the country’s defence strategy.
  • Capabilities: Iran possesses a range of missile types, including short-, medium-, and long-range ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones. Key missile classes include Shahab, Sejjil, and Ghadr missiles.
  • Ballistic Missiles: Iran’s long-range missiles, like the Shahab-3, can reach up to 2,000 km, putting Israel and U.S. bases in the Gulf within range. The missiles’ accuracy, however, remains questionable.
  • Missile Production: The country claims to produce its missiles domestically, though some reports suggest outside technological support from countries like North Korea.
  • April 2024 Attack: Iran launched 120 ballistic missiles, 30 cruise missiles, and 170 drones at Israel. Many failed to reach targets, raising concerns about missile reliability.
  • Strategic Importance: Iran’s missile programme is seen as a deterrent to regional rivals like Israel and Saudi Arabia. It serves as a key tool in asymmetric warfare, where Iran cannot match conventional military power.
  • Proxy Use: Iran’s missiles have been used by regional proxies like Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen.

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