Iran Deploys Sejjil Ballistic Missile in Ongoing West Asia Conflict

Iran has reportedly deployed its Sejjil ballistic missile for the first time during the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The missile was launched as part of a wave of attacks under Iran’s “Operation True Promise 4”, targeting Israeli military and administrative infrastructure. The development marks a significant escalation in the conflict as the Sejjil is considered one of Iran’s most advanced long-range ballistic missiles.

What is the Sejjil Missile?

The Sejjil missile, also known as Ashoura or Ashura, is a surface-to-surface, two-stage ballistic missile developed entirely by Iran. It uses solid fuel propulsion, which allows for quicker launch readiness compared to liquid-fuel missiles. The missile was designed to replace the older Shahab-class ballistic missiles that Iran had been operating since the late 1980s. Development reportedly began in the late 1990s under Iran’s Aerospace Industries Organisation, which operates under the country’s Ministry of Defence.

Range and Technical Specifications

The Sejjil missile has an estimated range of about 2,000 kilometres, enabling it to reach targets across much of the Middle East. It measures approximately 18 metres in length and about 1.25 metres in diameter, with a total launch weight of around 23,600 kilograms. The missile can carry a warhead weighing roughly 700 kilograms and is capable of delivering either conventional explosives or potentially nuclear payloads. Iranian sources claim that if launched from central Iran, the missile could reach Tel Aviv in roughly seven minutes.

Why it is Called the ‘Dancing Missile’

The Sejjil missile is often referred to as the “Dancing Missile” due to its manoeuvrability during different stages of flight. This manoeuvrability allows the missile to change trajectory, making interception by traditional air defence systems more difficult. It is believed that some variants, such as the Sejjil-2, may also include anti-radar coatings that reduce detection by enemy radar systems.

Important Facts for Exams

• Sejjil is a two-stage, solid-fuel, surface-to-surface ballistic missile developed by Iran.
• It has an estimated range of about 2,000 kilometres.
• The missile can carry a warhead of around 700 kilograms.
• Its manoeuvrability during flight has earned it the nickname “Dancing Missile”.

Development and Variants

Iran conducted the first successful test of the Sejjil missile in 2008, during which it reportedly travelled about 800 kilometres. Later tests referred to an improved version called Sejjil-2. Some reports suggest the possible development of a future Sejjil-3 variant with a three-stage design and a potential range of up to 4,000 kilometres. The exact variant used in the recent attacks has not yet been officially confirmed.