Exclusive: Iran Unveils Locally-Made BM-300 Surface-to-Surface Ballistic Missile at Vietnam Defense Expo.

Iran unveiled its domestically developed BM-300 surface-to-surface ballistic missile at the Defense Exhibition in Vietnam that takes place in Hanoi from 19 to 22 December 2024, underscoring the growing sophistication of its missile technology and signaling a deepening defense relationship with the host nation. This advanced weapon system, designed for high-precision strikes, highlights Iran’s commitment to bolstering its regional deterrence while exploring opportunities for military exports.
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Iran showcases a scale model of the BM-300 surface-to-surface ballistic missile at the Vietnam Defense Expo, highlighting its advanced design and capabilities.(Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The BM-300 surface-to-surface ballistic missile system is mounted on a 6x6 truck chassis, combining mobility and operational efficiency. The truck features a crew cabin at the front, with a small shelter located directly behind it, which houses all the equipment necessary for fire control operations. This compact design allows the crew to manage targeting and launching procedures from a protected environment. A launcher ramp is installed at the rear of the vehicle, designed to carry and fire a single BM-300 missile. This integrated setup enhances the system's mobility, enabling it to operate in diverse terrains and deploy rapidly for tactical missions, making it a versatile asset for modern battlefield scenarios.

The BM-300 is a single-stage, solid-propellant ballistic missile optimized for striking critical infrastructure such as command centers, missile sites, ammunition depots, military installations, and airports. With a range of 150 to 300 kilometers and a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of less than 35 meters, it offers a potent combination of range, mobility, and precision. The missile is mounted on an 8x8 mobile transporter-erector-launcher (TEL), ensuring operational flexibility and rapid deployment. Its solid-propellant motor, utilizing HTPB fuel, allows for efficient and reliable performance in diverse environments, making the BM-300 a valuable asset for both offensive and defensive operations.

Unveiling the BM-300 in Vietnam also sheds light on the evolving defense ties between Tehran and Hanoi. The defense relationship between Iran and Vietnam is rooted in their shared historical experiences of resisting foreign intervention and their mutual focus on achieving self-reliance in military capabilities. Over the years, both nations have actively sought to diversify their defense partnerships to reduce reliance on major powers and foster technological cooperation. Diplomatic exchanges and high-level visits by defense officials from both countries have paved the way for collaboration in military training, technology sharing, and the exchange of expertise. Vietnam’s hosting of this missile’s debut reinforces its willingness to engage with a non-Western defense partner, particularly one that can offer cost-effective and capable solutions.

The BM-300 is part of Iran’s broader missile development program, which has evolved significantly over the past decade. As Iran faces persistent challenges, including international sanctions, regional rivalries, and military threats, its missile program has become a cornerstone of its defense strategy. Iran has prioritized the development of a robust missile arsenal to counter threats from adversaries and assert its sovereignty. The BM-300 reflects this strategic focus, emphasizing precision and tactical utility.

Iran has produced a range of ballistic missiles over the last decade, including the Fateh-110 series, the Qiam-1, and the Khorramshahr medium-range missile. These systems have been developed to address both regional and international threats, ranging from potential conflicts with neighboring states to deterrence against global powers. The BM-300’s emphasis on accuracy and mobility highlights Iran’s ongoing efforts to create systems suited to modern combat scenarios.

On the international stage, Iran’s ballistic missile program has been a source of tension. Western nations, Israel, and certain Gulf states have expressed concerns over the potential for these weapons to destabilize the region. Additionally, Iran’s provision of missile technology to allied groups such as Hezbollah has further heightened apprehensions. Despite these pressures, Iran has continued to invest in its missile program as a symbol of its resistance to foreign interference and a means to project power regionally.

By showcasing the BM-300 in Vietnam, Iran is also positioning itself as a viable defense exporter. The exhibition offers an opportunity for Tehran to demonstrate its technical achievements and expand its presence in the global defense market. For Vietnam, the collaboration reflects its strategy of diversifying defense suppliers and modernizing its arsenal to address regional security concerns, particularly in the South China Sea. Hosting the BM-300’s debut also signals Hanoi’s interest in exploring new defense partnerships that align with its goals of cost-effective procurement and self-reliance.

The BM-300’s debut in Vietnam represents a convergence of strategic interests between the two nations. For Iran, it is a platform to highlight its resilience and innovation in defense technology despite international sanctions and isolation. For Vietnam, the exhibition serves as an avenue to deepen ties with an emerging defense partner while gaining access to advanced yet affordable military solutions.

The unveiling of the BM-300 highlights Iran’s ability to overcome international challenges and develop advanced systems tailored to its defense needs. At the same time, it underscores the growing partnership between Iran and Vietnam, rooted in shared strategic goals and a mutual commitment to strengthening their defense capabilities. As both nations navigate a complex global security landscape, this collaboration signals their determination to enhance self-reliance and explore new opportunities in the defense sector.