Iran confirms first-ever use of Kheibar Shekan missile in attack on Israel

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Iran’s elite military force, has announced that the country launched a Kheibar Shekan medium-range ballistic missile for the first time during its morning attack on Israel.

According to the IRGC statement, the final phase of the assault involved 40 ballistic missiles powered by both solid and liquid fuel, Caliber.Az reports, citing Tasnim.

The statement claimed that third-generation Kheibar Shekan ballistic missiles equipped with multiple warheads were used for the first time.

IRGC representatives said that “modern tactical approaches” were employed to enhance the strike’s effectiveness and precision. The missiles were reportedly aimed at various strategic targets, including transportation hubs, scientific facilities, and command centres.

The statement noted that the missiles carried manoeuvrable, high-performance warheads capable of remaining under control until impact. It was also claimed that the alert system was activated only after the strike, which, according to Tehran, reduced the effectiveness of Israel's defence readiness.

The IRGC emphasised that Iran’s main military capabilities remain unused.

The Kheibar Shekan ("Kheibar Breaker") is a third-generation medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) developed by Iran and unveiled in February 2022 by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). It features a solid-fuel propulsion system, enabling rapid launch capability and enhanced mobility compared to earlier liquid-fueled designs.

The missile has an estimated range of approximately 1,450 kilometers, making it capable of reaching strategic targets across the Middle East, including Israel. Its warhead is designed to be maneuverable, with advanced terminal guidance systems that allow it to remain under control during the final phase of flight, improving accuracy and increasing its ability to penetrate missile defense systems.

By Khagan Isayev