Iran reveals weapons used in attack on Israel, implications for Russia

The official news agency of the Islamic Republic of Iran, IRNA, has released information regarding the weapons systems used in the April 14 strike on Israel.

The report underscores that the attack was a retaliatory measure following the IDF strike on Damascus on April 1, which resulted in the deaths of seven senior Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps officers, including the commander of IRGC forces in Syria and Lebanon.

Introduced in 2022, the Kheibar Shekan solid-propellant missile represents the third generation of Iranian ballistic missiles. It operates on mobile launchers and boasts a swift launch capability. Weighing only 4,500 kilograms, its latest version has a range of 1,800 kilometers. IRNA lauds its precision and maneuverability.

The Emad medium-range ballistic missile, introduced in 2015, marks Iran's first development with a maneuverable warhead. Its flight is controlled just before detonation. With a range of 1,700 kilometers, the Emad measures 15.5 meters in length, weighs 17 tons and carries a 750 kg warhead. When armed, it exceeds 17 tons.

The latest addition, the Paveh cruise missile, entered service in 2023. Although its speed doesn't reach the sound barrier, it covers a range of 1,650 kilometers. Development focused on enabling mass production and reducing costs.

Described by IRNA as a "simplified cruise missile," the Shahed-136 unmanned loitering munition can function as a decoy target, compelling enemy air defenses to use costly interception measures. Weighing 200 kilograms, a quarter of its weight constitutes the payload. IRNA views it as an ideal tool for attrition warfare.

IRNA asserts that the total cost of the missiles and drones used in the strike did not exceed $50 million. In contrast, Israel's deployed air defense systems cost $1.3 billion, with a comparable amount spent by Israeli allies.

The report suggests that Russian and Iranian intelligence gleaned valuable insights for future confrontations with adversaries.