Sub-Launched Projectile Reportedly Hits Target

Iran tested another in a series of missiles Sunday, flexing its military muscle in advance of this week's deadline on deciding whether to abide by UN requirements that it stand down from its nuclear enrichment program. This time, however, the weapon involved was a submarine-launched, long-range missile reportedly capable radar evasion.

"Minutes ago [the missile] was launched from a submarine in the Persian Gulf and it hit the target," Iranian television reported.

Reuters reports the missile is called Sagheb... which means "Piercing." Iranian officials did not disclose the exact range of the missile, which was launched from one of Iran's three aging Kilo-class submarines in the Persian Gulf.

An admiral with Iran's navy, identified as Kouchaki, told state television the missile was designed and manufacturered in Iran.

"It can be installed and launched by Iran's navy. It is a long-range missile, with a very high speed and destructive power. It is also radar evading," he said.

Other news reports have pointed out that Iran often exaggerates its military capabilities -- and that much of its armaments are outdated relics of the Cold War, many of which have been purchased from countries like North Korea.

While it remains unclear if this latest missile launch increases the danger posed by Iran to its neighbors... there's little doubt that the Islamic Republic did demonstrate its ability to wreak havoc on shipping in the strategically vital Persian Gulf.

FMI: www.nti.org, www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/iran/navy.htm