Kheybar Shekan Missile
Why In News?
On March 8-9, 2026, Iran reportedly used Kheybar Shekan missiles in a new wave of attacks targeting Israeli military positions in Haifa and Tel Aviv.
Nomenclature
- The name translates to "Breaker of Khayber" (or "Fortress Buster"), a symbolic reference to a historical 7th-century battle.
Technical Specifications
- Range: Approximately 1,450 kilometres, allowing it to reach Israel from deep within western Iran.
- Propulsion: Powered by the 'Arond' solid-fuel engine, which is integrated into the fuel tank to reduce overall length.
- Weight & Size: Roughly 11.4 metres long with a launch weight of about 6.3 tonnes, making it lighter and more agile than older models.
Advanced Capabilities
- MaRV Technology: Features a Maneuverable Reentry Vehicle (MaRV) that allows it to zigzag and change direction during the terminal phase to evade air defences.
- High Speed: Capable of reaching atmospheric speeds of Mach 8 to Mach 12 (approx. 19,500 km/h outside the atmosphere).
- Rapid Deployment: Its solid-fuel design allows it to be launch-ready in under 15 minutes from mobile platforms.
Stealth Design
- The aerodynamic body lacks traditional ailerons, which reduces air drag and its radar cross-section, making it harder for early-warning systems to track.
Warhead
- Typically carries a 550–600 kg high-explosive warhead, though newer versions are reported to support cluster munitions.
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