Khorramshahr-4 (Kheibar) Missile: Iran’s Advanced Medium-Range Ballistic Capability

Why in the News ?

Iran recently released dramatic footage of its Khorramshahr-4 missile, one of Tehran’s most powerful medium-range ballistic missiles, amid rising tensions with the United States. The display is being viewed as a strategic signalling move, highlighting Iran’s evolving missile capabilities and deterrence posture in West Asia.

Background and Strategic Context

Iran’s missile programme has expanded significantly over the past two decades, primarily as a response to:

• International sanctions
• Limited access to advanced air power
• Regional security threats
• Ongoing tensions with the United States and Israel

Ballistic missiles form a central pillar of Iran’s defence doctrine, serving as a key deterrent tool.

The unveiling of the Khorramshahr-4 comes amid renewed geopolitical friction and reflects Iran’s emphasis on strategic autonomy in defence production.

About the Khorramshahr-4 Missile

• The Khorramshahr-4, also known as the Kheibar missile, is a medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) developed by Iran’s state-owned Aerospace Industries Organization (AIO).
• It is considered one of the most advanced versions in the Khorramshahr missile family.
• The missile is reportedly named after Khorramshahr, a city symbolically associated with Iran’s resistance during the Iran-Iraq War.

Technical Features

• Type: Medium-Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM)
• Fuel Type: Liquid-fuelled
• Operational Range: Approximately 2,000 kilometres
• Speed: Travels at hypersonic speeds (faster than the speed of sound)
• Payload Capacity: Capable of carrying a substantial conventional warhead

The 2,000-km range places several regional targets within reach, including parts of the Middle East.

Liquid-fuelled missiles typically require preparation time before launch but can carry heavier payloads compared to some solid-fuel variants.

Evolution of Iran’s Missile Programme

Iran’s missile development has progressed through multiple generations, including:

• Short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs)
• Medium-range ballistic missiles (MRBMs)
• Advances in guidance and re-entry vehicle technologies

Despite sanctions and restrictions under international frameworks, Iran has continued indigenous development of missile systems.

The Khorramshahr-4 represents an upgrade in range, payload, and operational survivability.

Regional Security Implications

The missile’s range allows it to potentially target strategic locations across West Asia.

Implications include:

• Strengthening Iran’s deterrence posture
• Heightened tensions with regional adversaries
• Concerns regarding missile proliferation
• Increased scrutiny from Western powers

Missile development remains a contentious issue in negotiations surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security dynamics.

Significance

• Enhances Iran’s conventional deterrence capability
• Demonstrates indigenous defence manufacturing strength
• Influences power balance in West Asia
• Raises concerns about missile race in the region
• Impacts diplomatic engagement between Iran and Western countries

The Khorramshahr-4 reflects Iran’s continued prioritisation of missile capabilities as a cornerstone of its national security strategy.