Iran test-fires mid-range missile
- Source: Global Times
- [01:52 December 17 2009]
- Comments
A video grab image shows Iran test-firing its Sejil-2 missile. (Xinhua/AFP Photo)
Iran has successfully tested an optimized version of the solid-fuel Sejjil-2 deterrent missile as part of its long-term plans to defend the country's borders, Iran's Press TV said Wednesday.
The test is widely seen as the country's response to a bill passed Tuesday by the US House of Representatives, which threatened more sanctions on Iran's energy sector.
The high-speed surface-to-surface Sejjil-2 has a longer range than the Shahab-3 missile, which can reach targets up to 2,000 kilometers away, according to the television report.
The new highly maneuverable missile is also more efficient, as it requires shorter time for pre-launch preparations. This quality reduces the possibility of it being targeted prior to take off, it said.
According to comments made by Iran's Defense Minister, Brigadier Ahmad Vahidi, the missile launch is part of the country's efforts to boost its deterrence capabilities.
"Iran's missile capabilities are strictly defensive and at the service of regional peace and stability. They will never be against any country," he stressed.
The US House of Representatives on Tuesday gave the green light to legislation that authorizes US President Barack Obama to levy sanctions on foreign companies that directly provide gasoline to Iran, along with the firms that provide insurance and tankers to facilitate the fuel shipments, according to Reuters.
The New York Times also reported Tuesday that Credit Suisse, the second-largest bank in Switzerland, was facing a fine of $536 million amid accusations by the US government and New York State authorities that it violated sanctions by helping Iran and other countries secretly funnel hundreds of millions of dollars through American banks.
