Iran Unveils Long-Range Cruise Missile on Revolution Anniversary, according to Reuters

DUBAI (Reuters) – Iran showcased a new cruise missile with a range of 1,300 km (800 miles) during celebrations for the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, as reported by state television.

Despite opposition from the United States and concerns from European nations, Iran has been expanding its missile program, particularly focusing on ballistic missiles. The Iranian government asserts that these developments are purely defensive.

During the unveiling ceremony, Defense Minister Amir Hatami stated, "This cruise missile requires a very short preparation time and can fly at low altitudes." The new missile, named Hoveizeh, is part of the Soumar family of cruise missiles, which was introduced to Iran’s arsenal in 2015.

Western analysts often express skepticism regarding Iran’s claims about its weapon capabilities, although there are valid concerns about the nation’s long-range ballistic missiles. Amirali Hajizadeh, the head of the Revolutionary Guards’ aerospace division, expressed at the event that Iran has resolved initial challenges in producing jet engines for cruise missiles and can now manufacture a comprehensive range of these weapons.

An undated video shared by the Defense Ministry’s website allegedly showed the Hoveizeh being test-fired from a mobile launcher, with Hatami indicating that the missile had successfully targeted at a distance of 1,200 km.

Following the 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, Iran has continued to advance its missile program in defiance of U.S. warnings. In January, Iran attempted to launch a satellite into space, claiming the effort failed. This launch occurred after the U.S. had cautioned Iran against three planned rocket launches, which Washington argued violated a U.N. Security Council resolution.

This resolution, which formalized Iran’s nuclear agreement, urged Tehran to avoid ballistic missile work designed to deliver nuclear weapons for a period of up to eight years. Iran contends that its missile tests do not breach this resolution, and it denies that its missiles can carry nuclear warheads, labeling them as defensive tools intended for deterrence. Tehran has also dismissed discussions regarding its missile program.

Last year, U.S. President Donald Trump exited the nuclear deal and reintroduced sanctions on Iran that had been lifted as part of the agreement, which was designed to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The U.S. maintains that, although Iran has adhered to the terms, the agreement was too lenient, failing to constrain Iran’s ballistic missile program or address what Washington characterizes as Iranian interference in regional issues.

Iran has built a substantial domestic arms industry, coping with decades of international sanctions and arms embargoes that have restricted weapon imports.