Shahab3

The Shahab-3 is an Iranian medium-range ballistic missile. Its development is widely believed to have originated from North Korean technology, specifically the Nodong-1 missile. Iran has been working on improving and diversifying its missile arsenal for years, and the Shahab-3 is a key component of this program.

Initial tests of the Shahab-3 were conducted in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with significant operational deployment reportedly beginning around 2003. Over time, Iran has claimed to have developed several variants and upgrades to the Shahab-3, aiming to increase its range, accuracy, and payload capacity. These improvements are a common theme in the development of ballistic missile systems worldwide.

The missile is thought to be capable of carrying a conventional or potentially a nuclear warhead, though Iran maintains its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes. Its estimated range has been a subject of discussion and analysis by international defense organizations, with figures varying but generally placing it within the medium-range category. The Shahab-3, along with other Iranian missile programs, is closely monitored by the international community due to regional security concerns.