Iran improving cheaper, more accurate missiles that put target on entire Middle East - report

Iran is increasingly utilizing Kheibar Shekan missiles, described as cheap, mobile, and accurate weapons with a range of at least 1,400 kilometers, in its recent strikes targeting US assets throughout the Middle East. According to US officials cited by The Wall Street Journal, these missiles differ significantly from older Iranian models. Unlike previous missiles that required lengthy pre-launch fueling, the Kheibar Shekan can be kept fueled and loaded rapidly onto trucks or other vehicles for launching. This mobility enhances their ability to evade detection and destruction by US and Israeli warplanes targeting launch sites.

Military experts note that the Kheibar Shekan's design makes it harder to counter. Some variants possess maneuverability features, including small engines in the nose section that detach during the final flight phase. This allows the warhead to adjust its trajectory as it approaches targets at high speeds, estimated around 10,000 kilometers per hour. Iran is reportedly combining these missile launches with high-speed attack drones and less sophisticated missiles, aiming to disrupt air defense radars and target housing areas for US troops stationed at bases across the region.

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I think what it tells us is Iran is paying attention, and they’re learning, and they’re looking at ways that they can get at us.

US officials acknowledge that while most Kheibar Shekan missiles have been intercepted, a portion have managed to penetrate defenses. Iran is adapting its strategies by employing different flight paths, maneuvers, and speeds to challenge US defense systems. Army Gen. Joseph Votel, former commander of US Central Command, observed that Iran is learning and adapting its capabilities. He highlighted Iran's well-developed drone program and long-standing missile development, indicating significant expertise in this area. While estimates suggest Iran possessed around 2,500 Kheibar Shekan and other medium-range missiles before the recent conflict, it is believed to be producing more from components stored in underground facilities.

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This is a military that has a well-developed drone capability; it’s had a missile program, a rocket program for a long period of time. They’ve got a lot of expertise in this area.