WANA (Feb 12) – Among Iran’s ballistic missile arsenal, the Khorramshahr stands out as one of the most powerful and heaviest missiles. Having evolved through multiple generations, it has now become a key strategic weapon for the Islamic Republic of Iran. But what makes the Khorramshahr so significant?

 

Development and Advancements

The Khorramshahr missile was first unveiled in 2017 and immediately drew attention for its unique design and heavy warhead. Unlike many other Iranian missiles that use solid fuel, this missile operates on liquid fuel, which provides greater destructive power.

 

Over the years, improved versions were introduced, including Khorramshahr-2, Khorramshahr-3, and finally Khorramshahr-4 (also known as Kheibar), each featuring notable advancements.

An Iranian ballistic missile called "Khorramshahr" with a range of 2000 km, is seen during Iran's defence achievements exhibition in Tehran, Iran August 23, 2023. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

An Iranian ballistic missile called “Khorramshahr” with a range of 2000 km, is seen during Iran’s defence achievements exhibition in Tehran, Iran August 23, 2023. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Khorramshahr-4: A Leap in Missile Capabilities

The latest iteration, Khorramshahr-4 (Kheibar), was introduced in 2023, boasting exceptional features. With a 2,000 km range, Mach 8 speed, mid-course trajectory correction capability, and an advanced guidance system, it surpasses previous generations.

 

Additionally, the Arvand engine, used in this missile, relies on hypergolic fuel, which ignites on contact without requiring an ignition system, allowing for long-term storage.

 

Heavy Warhead and High Destructive Power

What sets the Khorramshahr-4 apart as a serious threat is its extremely heavy warhead. The latest version carries a 2-ton explosive payload, an unprecedented figure among Iranian missiles. This payload can cause widespread destruction within a 1-kilometer radius, posing a significant challenge to enemy fortifications.

A new surface-to-surface 4th generation Khorramshahr ballistic missile called Khaibar with a range of 2,000 km is launched at an undisclosed location in Iran, in this picture obtained on May 25, 2023. Iran’s Ministry of Defence/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Interception and Defense Challenges

One of the Khorramshahr-4’s most critical features is its maneuverable warhead and high terminal speed, making it difficult for enemy air defense systems to intercept. Some military analysts classify it as a maneuverable hypersonic weapon, meaning it can effectively bypass missile defense systems.

 

The Khorramshahr missile, especially in its latest version, represents a major milestone in Iran’s missile technology. Combining high destructive power, long-range capability, high speed, and strategic maneuverability, it stands as one of the most sophisticated and formidable missiles in the region.