According to an American publication, Bloomberg, European officials are cautioning that Iran is poised to start supplying ballistic missiles to Russia’s military. While Russian troops already wield considerable strength in this weapons category, NATO views this move as a significant threat to Zelensky’s army.
The article’s anonymous sources noted that Iran has already provided hundreds of drones to Russia during the Special Military Operation in Ukraine. However, the potential delivery of ballistic missiles is expected to have a much more profound impact on the battlefield.
Details on the types, quantities, or timing of these missile deliveries remain undisclosed, although one source hinted that deliveries could commence in the coming days. Ballistic missiles are known for their higher speeds compared to cruise missiles or drones and can carry much heavier payloads.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces are facing challenges in halting Russian momentum moving eastward into the Donetsk People’s Republic. Local towns are gradually falling under Russian control one by one. Reports indicate that North Korean missiles are being used in Ukraine, with a recent assault on the Ukrainian capital reportedly involving Russian Iskander-M missiles and North Korean KN-23 missiles.
On the other hand, Ukraine’s allies are unable to fully deliver on their promises to bolster the country’s air defense systems. Many NATO countries have yet to implement the measures agreed upon during the alliance’s summit in Washington this past July, according to sources.
While details remain unclear regarding the types of missiles Iran might supply to Russia, and whether European reports will be verified, it’s essential to consider what kinds of similar munitions Tehran has in its arsenal.
Over the years, Iran has developed a diverse range of ballistic missiles, each varying in range, payload capacity, and precision. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key types currently in service and those that might find their way to Russia.
The Fateh-110/313 is a solid-fuel, road-mobile short-range ballistic missile [SRBM] with a range of 300-500 km. This series is renowned for its precision and has seen numerous upgrades over the years. An upgraded version of the Fateh-110, the Zolfaghar, boasts a range of about 700 km and shares the same solid-fuel, road-mobile characteristics. The Qiam-1, on the other hand, is a liquid-fueled SRBM with a range of around 800 km. It represents an evolution of the Scud missile, equipped with a maneuverable re-entry vehicle.
The Shahab-3, rooted in North Korea’s Nodong missile, features a range of 1,300-2,000 km. As a liquid-fueled missile, it has been a cornerstone of Iran’s strategic missile forces. The Emad, a more advanced variant of the Shahab-3, offers greater precision and an estimated range of around 1,700 km. Another variant of the Shahab-3, the Ghadr-110, extends its capabilities with a range of 1,800-2,000 km, designed for enhanced mobility and accuracy.
Sejjil is a solid-fuel, two-stage missile boasting a range of approximately 2,000 to 2,500 kilometers. As one of Iran’s most advanced ballistic missiles, it offers superior survivability and swifter launch capabilities compared to its liquid-fueled counterparts.
The types of ballistic missiles that could potentially be transferred to Russia would hinge on various strategic considerations, such as the need for mobility, ease of deployment, and range. Here are some potential options:
Fateh-110/313 and Zolfaghar: These short-range ballistic missiles [SRBMs] are prime candidates for transfer, thanks to their solid-fuel design which enables rapid deployment and greater mobility. Their shorter range makes them particularly suited for tactical use in conflicts similar to the one in Ukraine.
Qiam-1: Even though it’s liquid-fueled, the Qiam-1 could be an interesting choice because of its longer range compared to the Fateh series. It’s Scud missile-based design might also make it easier to fit into existing Russian missile systems.
Shahab-3/Emad/Ghadr-110: These medium-range ballistic missiles could be considered if there’s a need for longer-range capabilities. However, their liquid-fueled nature and larger size could make them less appealing for rapid deployment.
Sejil: The Sejil is highly capable, but its longer range and strategic nature might make it less likely to be transferred unless there’s a significant need to boost intermediate-range capabilities.
Source » iranintl