Haaretz reports:
Iran has converted a 30-ton ballistic missile into a satellite launch vehicle that will soon be used to send a reconaissance satellite into space, a move that could have wide security implications, Aviation Week & Space Technology magazine reported on its Web site on Thursday.
Alaeddin Boroujerdi, the chairman of the Iranian parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, spoke about the upcoming launch to religious students and clerics in Qom, the industry trade publication said.
The launcher is a version of the Shahab 3 missile that has a range of 800 to 1,000 miles (1,285-1,600 kilometers), the magazine said, citing unidentified U.S. agencies. A missile of its kind could reach Saudi Arabia and as far west as Turkey, the report said.
Additionally, improvements in space launches could help Iran build an intercontinental ballistic missile with a range of almost 2,500 miles (4,000 kilometers), according to the magazine.
[…]
He added, “a reconnaissance satellite of reasonable performance should weigh about 300 kg. [660 lb.] Once Iran learns how to put 300 kg. into earth orbit, it could adapt the satellite launcher into an ICBM that could drop more than 300 kg anywhere in the world.”
According to Haaretz, the magazine also said that Iran’s satellite launch will “likely increase Western concern” over its capabilities and intentions.
No, really?
What I don’t understand is that anyone could possibly be surprised by whatever Iran does. Oh, and about Iran’s intentions? What is so vague about “wiping Israel off the map” or “death to America”? Iran’s intentions are clear: the destruction of Israel, at least, and in their wild dreams the Mullahs dream about destroying the U.S. Since that does not seem very likely, they will most likely turn to terrorism.
Oh, wait, they already have turned to terrorism.
The only possible surprise could be Iran’s capabilities, there is nothing vague or unknown about its intentions.
And the West and Israel have to do everything to make sure that Iran will never get its hands on technology it needs to carry out its intentions.
H/t Holly.
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