Description

Source: TOI

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Context

Iran has successfully test-fired the advanced Ghadr-380 anti-warship cruise missile, with a range of 1,000 kilometers (600 miles). This missile is capable of targeting and potentially hitting U.S. Navy ships deployed in the near Sea regions . The missile test was broadcast on Iranian state TV, highlighting its strategic importance.

Key Points of the Missile Test

Missile Type	Ghadr-380 mile type L (anti-warship cruise missile)
Range	1,000 kilometers (600 miles), capable of reaching the U.S. Navy ships in Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman
Missile Features	- Anti-jamming capability - Quick readiness (launched by one personnel in less than 5 minutes)
Launch Site	Launched from an underground missile facility in central Iran, targeting the Sea of Oman
Missile Launch Time	The specific time of the test and the warhead details were not disclosed by the Iranian authorities
Strategic Significance	Ability to hit key naval targets, including U.S. warships, in critical maritime regions
Underground Facility	Part of a network of underground missile facilities in southern Iran near the Strait of Hormuz
Capability for Launch	Ready for launch in under 5 minutes by a single operator

Iran’s Military Strength and Strategy:

Underground Missile Facilities:
- - Iran has a history of constructing underground missile facilities, particularly along the southern coast, near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
  - Iran claims to have a variety of missiles capable of striking targets at ranges up to 2,000 kilometers, potentially reaching parts of the Middle East, including Israel.
  - Iran has developed advanced missile systems, including liquid-fueled missiles, to serve as deterrents
  - Iran's ballistic missile program developed as a deterrent after the brutal 8-year Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, where both countries used missiles to target civilian areas.
  - Due to UN arms embargoes limiting access to advanced weapons, Iran focused on building its own missile systems domestically.
Impact on Regional Security:
- - Iran’s missile and nuclear programs continue to be a point of concern for the U.S. and its Western allies.
  - The development and deployment of missiles with a longer range heighten tensions in the region, particularly with regard to the U.S. naval presence.

Conclusion

Iran’s successful test-firing of the Ghadr-380 missile further bolsters its military deterrence capabilities in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman. The missile’s extended range and anti-jamming features are designed to counter modern naval threats, particularly those posed by the U.S. Navy.

Source: TOI

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.With reference to Iran’s Ghadr-380 anti-warship missile, consider the following statements:

The Ghadr-380 missile has a range of 1,000 kilometers but can not target U.S. Navy ships in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman.
The missile is designed to be launched by multiple personnel within 5 minutes.
Iran’s missile test highlighted the strategic importance of its underground missile facilities near the Strait of Hormuz.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (b)
Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect
The Ghadr-380 missile has a range of 1,000 kilometers, making it capable of targeting U.S. Navy ships in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman.
Statement 2 is incorrect
The missile can be launched by a single personnel in under 5 minutes, not by multiple personnel.
Statement 3 is correct
Iran’s missile test emphasized the strategic role of its underground missile facilities, especially those located near the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime region.