Iran's May 1 test of its Shihab-3 intermediate-range missile succeeded for the first time in striking a predetermined target.
Earlier reports said the test took place on May 5.
Western intelligence sources said Iran's latest test of the Shihab-3 demonstrated the
capabilities of the missile's range and guidance and reflected
improvements made by North Korea to the Shihab-3 engine, navigational and
guidance system as well as in integration.
The sources provided new details of the Shihab-3 test, Middle East Newsline reported. They said the
Shihab-3 was launched on May 1 in the Semnan region of Iran. The Shihab-3 also achieved a range of more than 1,000 kilometers, a
record for the missile. The missile also struck a predetermined target, also
a first for the Shihab.
Israel and the United States have confirmed the Shihab-3 launch. Israeli
officials provided some details of the missile, with a range of 1,300
kilometers.
"The last [test] one was less than this [range] but it was apparently
successful," Israeli minister Dan Meridor said.
