What Is the Range of Iran Missiles?

Iran’s missile arsenal is one of the most closely monitored military assets in the Middle East. While the public often hears about the sheer number of missiles, the actual distance these weapons can travel—known as their range—remains a critical question for regional security analysts and policymakers.

Understanding Missile Range Categories

Missile ranges are typically divided into four categories:

Iran’s inventory spans across these categories, with several missile families falling into each.

Short‑Range Missiles

Iran’s short‑range ballistic missiles are primarily designed for regional deterrence. Notable examples include:

  1. Hoveyzeh: 1,500 km range, used for striking targets within the Persian Gulf and Iraq.
  2. Nasr (also known as Fajr‑5): 1,200 km range, capable of reaching parts of the Levant and the Arabian Peninsula.
  3. Shahed‑136: 1,200 km, often deployed as a tactical missile for border security.

These systems can be launched from mobile platforms, enhancing their survivability and flexibility on the battlefield.

Medium‑Range Missiles

Iran’s medium‑range capabilities are more varied, including both ballistic and cruise missiles.

Ballistic Variants Cruise Missiles

These missiles often feature low‑flying flight profiles that reduce detection by radar.

Intermediate‑Range Missiles

Iran’s most significant long‑range threat comes from its intermediate‑range ballistic missiles, which can strike deep into neighboring countries and beyond.

  1. Shaheen‑II: 2,400 km range, capable of reaching the eastern Mediterranean and parts of the Indian Ocean.
  2. Shaheen‑III: 3,000 km, a more advanced version of the Shaheen family with higher payload capacity.
  3. Qiam‑2: 3,000 km, often cited in intelligence reports for its potential to target Israel and the Gulf Cooperation