Meet the Ghost Missile, Iran’s Kheibar Shekan that outran Israel’s defences, it can destroy…, can travel…, built in…

New Delhi: Iran launched a series of missiles and drones at key Israeli targets on 22 June, including Ben Gurion Airport and military command centres. According to the reports, Iran deployed the Kheibar Shekan missile—its most advanced, homegrown ballistic weapon.

The attack comes after the United States and Israel launched brutal attacks on nuclear facilities in Iran. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed that it used the Kheibar Shekan missile in the attack, which it said was part of a broader “strategic response to Israeli aggression.”

In a direct quote reported by state news agency IRNA, the IRGC stated: “This operation did not involve all armed capabilities yet,” indicating that more advanced systems may still be in reserve.

Kheibar Shekan means “Breaker of Khyber” in Arabic—a name rich with historical symbolism for Iran. It references the 7th-century Battle of Khyber in Arabia between Muslims and Jews, where Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib played a decisive role.

Here are some of the key features of Kheibar Shekan missile:

  • The Kheibar Shekan missile belongs to the fourth generation of Iran’s Khorramshahr missile family.
  • It has a range of 1,450 kilometres
  • The missile runs on solid fuel—giving it high mobility and faster launch times.
  • The warhead weighs approximately 1,500 kilograms and is nearly four metres long.
  • Its top speed exceeds 19,500 km/h outside the atmosphere and nearly 9,800 km/h within
  • The Kheibar Shekan uses satellite navigation and a new guidance system.
  • It also features a Maneuverable Reentry Vehicle (MaRV) that allows it to zigzag through the atmosphere before hitting its target.

The process of developing this missile series started in 2017 with the unveiling of the Khorramshahr-1. Later versions included Khorramshahr-2 in 2019, and the Khorramshahr-4 in 2023. Iran has never publicly confirmed the third generation, Khorramshahr-3, though military officials have acknowledged its existence, hinting at “advanced capabilities that have not been disclosed for security reasons.”

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