The conflict between Iran and Israel-America has intensified. Under Operation True Promise 4, Iran launched significant missile and drone attacks on Israeli and American targets. The IRGC reported employing the advanced Kheibar Shekan missile in multiple waves of the operation.
This missile ranks among Iran's most sophisticated ballistic missiles. The IRGC claims it bypassed Israel's air defenses to strike key sites including Tel Aviv's government complex, military centers in Haifa, and areas of East Jerusalem. Iran cautioned citizens to steer clear of military and governmental zones.
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Source: aajtak
What is the Kheibar Shekan Missile?
The Kheibar Shekan is Iran's latest long-range solid-fuel ballistic missile, named after the ancient Arab battle between Muslims and Jews. Part of the Khorramshahr missile family, its 1450 km range can easily reach Israel from western Iran, as reported by IRNA.
Equipped with a satellite guidance system and maneuverable warhead, the missile ensures precision strikes. Its dimensions include a length of approximately 4 meters and a weight of 1,500 kilograms. Traveling at an outer atmosphere speed exceeding 19,500 km/h, and 9,800 km/h within, its velocity challenges advanced defense systems like Israel's Arrow or the United States' Patriot.
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Launched from a mobile platform, the missile is ready in less than 15 minutes. Its aerodynamic design reduces air friction and evades radar detection. Featuring Iran's own 'Arand' engine integrated within the fuel tank, the missile is compact and concealable, designed to bypass conventional air defenses.
Development of the Missile
The Kheibar Shekan belongs to the Khorramshahr missile lineage.
Its first version, Khorramshahr-1, was introduced in 2017, measuring 13 meters in length.
The second version emerged in 2019.
Khorramshahr-3 was developed clandestinely but later confirmed.
The fourth version, Kheibar Shekan, was unveiled in 2022-2023.
Showcased during Iran's Defense Week parade, its solid-fuel capabilities facilitate quick launch and concealment.
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Previous Uses
The Kheibar Shekan has seen deployment in several operations…
True Promise 1 (April 2024): A significant attack on Israel.
True Promise 2 (October 2024): Retaliation for the deaths of Hezbollah and Hamas leaders.
The third generation employed in a direct strike on Israel in June 2025.
Now used in the tenth wave of True Promise 4 (2026), with the IRGC stating it tore through Israel's defenses.
Iran holds high confidence in this missile for its hypersonic speed and maneuverability that make interception challenging. In Operation True Promise 4, Iran launched hundreds of missiles across American bases in the Gulf (Bahrain, Qatar, UAE) and Israel.
