Tehran Jun 23 (V7N) — Iran has used its fourth-generation hypersonic ballistic missile, the Khyber Sheqan, during its latest attacks on Israeli targets, according to reports from various international media outlets. This marks the first operational deployment of the advanced Khorramshahr-4 missile, launched by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The Khyber Sheqan missile—named after the historic Khyber region in present-day Saudi Arabia—was first unveiled in 2022. It is a medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) capable of traveling up to 2,000 kilometers while carrying a massive 1,500 kg warhead. As one of Iran’s heaviest and most sophisticated missiles, the Khyber Sheqan represents a significant advancement in Tehran’s missile capabilities.

What makes this missile particularly concerning for Israel’s defense is its hypersonic speed—reportedly traveling 15 times faster than the speed of sound—and its advanced maneuverability mid-flight, which makes interception extremely difficult. Iran claims that the missile can evade advanced air defense systems such as Israel’s Iron Dome and David’s Sling.

Military analysts note that the Khyber Sheqan is designed to specifically counter powerful anti-missile systems like those possessed by Israel. Iranian defense officials assert that the missile’s precision targeting capabilities make it a formidable addition to their strategic arsenal.

Despite Iran’s technological progress, questions remain about how the country achieved this level of missile sophistication under decades of Western sanctions targeting its military-industrial development. Western analysts have expressed concern about the implications of Iran possessing hypersonic ballistic missile technology, particularly in an already volatile Middle East.

The deployment of the Khyber Sheqan comes amid escalating hostilities following Israel’s attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, with Iran now intensifying its retaliatory strikes. The appearance of such advanced weaponry suggests that the conflict between Iran and Israel may now be entering a more dangerous and technologically advanced phase.

As tensions escalate, global attention remains focused on the evolving situation and its implications for regional and global security.

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