Iran Test-Launches Khorramshahr 4 Hypersonic Missile with 2-Ton Warhead

Iran has test-launched and placed its Khorramshahr 4 hypersonic ballistic missile into combat service, marking the first reported deployment of the system in underground facilities operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

IRGC-aligned Fars News Agency reported that the missile, also known as Kheibar, has been deployed in what Iran describes as “underground missile cities.” The outlet cited an IRGC source as saying the missile reaches speeds of up to Mach 16 outside the atmosphere and around Mach 8 during atmospheric flight, reducing the time available for missile defense systems to respond.

Fars said the missile has a declared range of about 2,000 kilometers and can reach Israel’s borders in an estimated 10 to 12 minutes after launch. The agency reported an accuracy of around 30 meters and described the system as “one of the main pillars of Iran’s active deterrence.”

Iranian state broadcaster Press TV said the deployment reflects a shift by the IRGC “from a defensive position to an offensive position,” adding that the move “carries a clear message to regional and extra-regional adversaries.” It reported the warhead weight at 1,500 kilograms and the range at 2,000 kilometers, or about 1,240 miles.

The Khorramshahr 4 was officially unveiled in 2023.

The missile is said to be equipped with intermediate guidance systems, a reduced radar cross-section, and resistance to electronic warfare. These features are intended to increase its ability to penetrate air and missile defenses.

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