Iran’s Khorramshahr‑4 Ballistic Missile: Features, Range, Warhead & Technical Details 🇮🇷🚀
Overview
The Khorramshahr‑4, also referred to as Kheibar, is Iran’s most advanced long-range ballistic missile. It is part of Iran’s Khorramshahr missile family and represents a significant evolution in Tehran’s strategic strike capabilities. First publicly unveiled in 2023, it is deployed by the IRGC Aerospace Force and serves as a key element of Iran’s missile deterrence strategy.
Classification & Role
Type: Medium-Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM)
Role: Strategic long-range strike and deterrenceService: Operational within Iran’s missile forces
Physical Characteristics
Length: About 13 meters
Diameter: Approximately 1.5 metersLaunch Weight: Roughly 19–30 tonnes depending on configuration
These dimensions make it one of the largest missiles in Iran’s arsenal.
Propulsion & Fuel
Khorramshahr‑4 uses a hypergolic liquid-fuel rocket engine, which ignites spontaneously on contact with oxidizer. This allows the missile to be stored fueled for extended periods and prepared for launch on short notice.
Range & Mobility
Range: Around 2,000 km (1,240 miles), capable of reaching strategic regions across the Middle East.
Launch Platform: Mobile launchers (TELs) or hidden underground facilities.
The mobility and concealment make the missile harder to detect and target before launch.
Warhead & Payload
Typical Payload Capacity: Approximately 1,500 kg, with potential for heavier or lighter configurations depending on mission requirements.
Warhead Types:
Conventional high-explosive warheads
Cluster or submunition warheads, capable of dispersing multiple smaller explosives over a wide area
Potential for specialized payloads (e.g., decoys or sensor packages)
The heavy payload allows versatility in target engagement.
Speed & Flight Profile
Reentry Speed: Up to Mach 16 outside the atmosphere, around Mach 8 during terminal phase.
Flight Time: Maximum range strikes can take 10–12 minutes from launch to impact.The high speed and ballistic trajectory make interception challenging for many defense systems.
Guidance & Accuracy
Mid-Course Guidance: Allows in-flight trajectory corrections outside the atmosphere for improved accuracy.
Maneuverable Reentry Vehicle (MaRV): Optional thrusters adjust trajectory during reentry.Reduced Radar Signature: Designed with minimal fins and thrust vectoring to reduce detectability.
Electronic Countermeasure Resistance: Guidance systems are hardened against jamming and interference.
These features enhance survivability against advanced missile defense systems.
Strategic Importance
Khorramshahr‑4 enhances Iran’s strategic deterrence by:
Extending reach across the Middle East and beyond
Challenging layered missile defense systemsDelivering a heavy and versatile payload, including cluster munitions if required
It is a significant advancement over previous Iranian ballistic missiles, combining range, payload, and modern guidance systems.