Number: RS22758
Title: Iran's Ballistic Missile Programs: An Overview
Authors: Steven A. Hildreth, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: Iran has an active interest in developing, acquiring, and deploying a broad range of ballistic missiles. This was spotlighted in mid-July 2008 when Iran launched a number of ballistic missiles during military exercises, reportedly including the mediumrange Shahab-3. On July 18, 2008, a Pentagon spokesman said Iran was "not testing new technologies or capabilities, but rather firing off old equipment in an attempt to intimidate their neighbors and escalate tension in the region." Subsequent analysis of the July 2008 missile launches also shows Iran apparently digitally altered images of those launches. This report seeks to provide an overview of the reported or suspected variety of Iranian ballistic missile programs. Because there remains widespread public divergence over particulars, however, this report does not provide specificity to what Iran may or may not have, or is in the process of developing.
Pages: 6
Date: July 21, 2008