Iran Unveils New Etamad 1700 km Ballistic Missile Strengthening Threats at International Level.

On February 2, 2025, Iran announced the successful development of its new ballistic missile, named Etamad, which significantly enhances the nation's missile capabilities. According to Iranian state news outlets, the Etamad missile features a remarkable range of 1,700 kilometers and is designed to carry a guided warhead to its target with high precision.
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Iran has unveiled its new Etamad ballistic missile, which has a range of 1,700 kilometers and features a precision-guided warhead. (Picture source: Press TV IR)

With a length of 16 m and a diameter of 1.25 m, the Etamad missile represents a substantial step forward in Iran’s missile technology. It is engineered to maintain guidance throughout its flight, offering enhanced accuracy and lethality against strategic targets. The missile is reportedly part of Iran's broader strategy to extend its missile deterrence capabilities, with a focus on precision strikes at critical infrastructure in hostile regions, including Israel and Gulf nations.

This new development follows a series of advancements in Iran's missile arsenal, marking a broader push by the country to diversify and modernize its missile systems. The Etamad joins a growing list of long-range missiles developed by Iran, including variants like the Emad and Ghadr systems, which have seen increasing ranges and accuracy improvements. In particular, the Emad missile, unveiled in previous years, demonstrated precision guidance with its maneuverable warhead, capable of adjusting its flight path mid-course to increase targeting accuracy.

The unveiling of the Etamad missile comes at a time of heightened tension in the region. Iranian military officials have warned of potential shifts in their missile strategy, including developing systems capable of reaching continental Europe, which could further raise the stakes in geopolitical conflicts involving Iran.

With a range of 1,700 km, the Etamad missile extends Iran’s ability to target a broader range of regions, including parts of the Middle East, the Arabian Peninsula, and even Israel, which is within its reach. Such a range positions the missile as a significant asset in Iran’s strategic deterrence and offensive capabilities.

At the international level, the Etamad missile poses a serious security concern for neighboring countries and global powers with interests in the region. For instance, it brings key targets in Saudi Arabia, Israel, and other Gulf states within striking distance, particularly critical military infrastructure and defense sites. Iran's ability to launch precise strikes against such targets would complicate the defense strategies of these nations and their allies.

The missile's capability also adds to the growing apprehension in Europe. Iranian officials have previously hinted at future missile systems capable of reaching continental Europe, raising alarms over the potential for a more direct threat to European security. If Iran’s missile capabilities continue to advance, countries in the West may face increased pressure to develop more robust missile defense systems or engage in more aggressive diplomacy and countermeasures.

Moreover, the Etamad missile could lead to increased arms competition in the region. Countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and others may feel compelled to enhance their own missile and defense systems to counter the perceived threat from Iran, potentially fueling an arms race in the already volatile Middle East.

This missile development also impacts the broader geopolitical dynamics surrounding the Iran nuclear deal. With advancements in both ballistic missile technology and nuclear capabilities, Iran's posture on the global stage could further strain relations with Western powers, particularly the United States, which has imposed sanctions on Iran for its missile development and nuclear ambitions.

While official testing and deployment dates for the Etamad remain unclear, the missile’s 1,700 km range positions it as a significant threat, particularly to military and infrastructure targets in neighboring countries. This development underscores Iran's continuing efforts to strengthen its military deterrence capabilities despite international sanctions and regional opposition.

As the Etamad joins other advanced Iranian missile systems, such as the Fattah hypersonic missile and the Khoramshahr-2, Iran’s missile program continues to evolve, making it a key factor in the regional balance of power.