Iran has fired an upgraded version of its Fateh-110 short-range ballistic missile in a “successful” test of its ability to hit stationary land or sea targets, Defense Minister Ahmad Vahidi said on Saturday, according to state television.

Vahidi said the missile now has a range of “more than 300 kilometers” (190 miles) and can be fired at “targets in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman as well as land-based targets,” the IRIB channel reported.

Iran is among few world countries capable of producing such missiles, noted the Minister.

He called the missile a “deterrent” and said “it will only be used against those who have bad intentions towards the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

He did not say when or where the missile was tested.

By this new generation of the Fateh missile, the Iranian Armed Forces can destroy both sea and ground targets, he said, reiterating that the Defense Ministry plans to equip all its home-made missiles with this new capability.

Previous versions of the missile have been tested since 2001 and were reported to have a range of 150-250 kilometers.

Iran frequently holds missile tests and military maneuvers to underline its muscle should it come under external threat.

Such exercises have multiplied this year amid growing tensions with the West and Israeli threats of possible air strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities.

 

Source: IRNA; IRIB