Iran continues to expand production of cruise missiles designed to strike ground targets despite international sanctions and damage sustained during two military conflicts. At a presentation of a new missile system developed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force, Iran displayed advanced weapons featuring extended flight ranges and improved guidance systems, according to Iranian news outlet Mashregh.

One missile attracted particular attention because of its unconventional design, which differs significantly from previous Iranian models. Instead of a conventional cylindrical fuselage, it features a sharply angled triangular body and wings that fold downward at the rear.

According to Mashregh, the unusual configuration is primarily intended to reduce the missile’s radar signature. This would give enemy air defense systems less time to detect and intercept the incoming weapon.

A launch booster is also visible at the rear of the missile. It provides the initial altitude and speed required for flight before separating from the main body.

Another notable feature of the newly displayed missiles is their guidance technology, which is designed to reduce reliance on satellite navigation systems. International sanctions have made access to such systems a persistent challenge for Iran.

The missiles reportedly incorporate TERCOM and DSMAC guidance technologies. TERCOM uses preloaded terrain maps and an onboard radar altimeter to measure the missile’s height above the ground, enabling it to maintain a low-altitude flight path.

DSMAC operates differently, using an optical system in the missile’s nose to compare real-time images of the terrain with stored reference imagery along its programmed route. The published footage shows that at least one or two of the missiles are equipped with such optical devices.

Mashregh emphasizes that the IRGC is placing particular importance on improving cruise missile accuracy and overcoming limitations associated with satellite navigation. The publication also reports that production of these weapons has not only continued despite the effects of two wars but is still expanding.

The outlet identifies the missiles' considerable operational range as the most significant aspect of the new developments. However, detailed technical specifications of the weapons have yet to be disclosed.