The Fajr rocket launcher system is one of the significant achievements of Iran's defense industries, designed for offensive operations and supporting ground forces. This system is classified as a rocket artillery system and has been produced in various versions. Below are the details about this system:

1. Types of Fajr Rocket Launcher Systems

Fajr-1

Caliber: 107 mm

Range: Approximately 8 to 10 kilometers

Features:

A small, portable version.

Suitable for quick strikes and tactical operations.

Similar to well-known systems like Russia's BM-12.

Fajr-1 was the first artillery rocket manufactured by Iranian military forces. This weapon resembles a mini-Katyusha system. Developed in China in 1960, its lightness and small size contributed to its rapid adoption. In Iran, two types of ammunition for this system have been produced so far.

Fajr-3

Caliber: 240 mm

Range: Approximately 43 kilometers

Features:

Equipped with 12 launchers for simultaneous firing.

Suitable for attacking wide targets and enemy bases.

Capable of being mounted on mobile vehicles.

Fajr-4

Fajr-4 has not gained the same fame as Fajr-3 and Fajr-5. This system features a 333 mm rocket with a range of 50–70 kilometers.

Iran purchased this rocket launcher from North Korea in 1985 and later achieved self-sufficiency in its production. The Fajr-3 rocket is a single-stage, solid-fuel rocket. The system is 5.2 meters long with a diameter of 240 mm. Its warhead is of the fragmenting type, weighing 85 kilograms. A 12-rocket launcher, modeled after the Korean version, is used in Iran. When fully armed with 12 rockets, the system weighs approximately 19 tons.

Fajr-5

Caliber: 333 mm

• Range: 75 kilometers (in early versions) and up to 130 kilometers in advanced versions.
• Features:
  • Equipped with 4 large launchers for heavy rockets.
  • Suitable for strategic attacks deep into enemy territory.
  • Guided versions of this system have been developed for increased accuracy.

The Fajr-5 rocket is designed in three models:

Single-Stage Model:

• Range: 75 kilometers
• Caliber: 333 mm
• Rocket Weight: 907 kg
• Warhead Weight: 175 kg
• Length: 6.4 meters
• Maximum Speed: 1,100 m/s
• Mission: Surface-to-Surface
• Operational temperatures: -40°C to +50°C

The Fajr-5 launcher system, a multiple rocket launcher (MRL) developed in Iran during the 1990s, was designed for heavy fire support and long-range attacks. It plays a vital role in enhancing the offensive and deterrent capabilities of Iran’s armed forces.

Two-Stage Fajr:

• Range: 180 kilometers
• Caliber: 333 mm
• Warhead Weight: 175 kg
• Length: 9.4 meters
• Mission: Surface-to-Surface

Fajr-5C (Guided Version):

• Features:
  • Equipped with an advanced guidance system for enhanced precision.
  • Suitable for targeting mobile positions or high-value targets.

2. General Features of Fajr Systems

• Multipurpose: Suitable for various missions, including infrastructure destruction, enemy bases, and massed troops.
• Vehicle-Mounted Capability: Allows for rapid mobility and firing from different battlefield locations.
• Ease of Use: Simple, cost-effective design for widespread battlefield use.

3. Applications

• Role in Asymmetric Warfare: Due to its portability and significant range, the Fajr system is suitable for guerrilla and asymmetric warfare.
• Use in Urban Areas and Extensive Frontlines: Its range and destructive power make it a key tool in heavy combat operations.

4. Export and Use by Resistance Forces

• The Fajr system has been exported to allied countries and resistance groups in the region.
• Examples of this system have been utilized by Hezbollah and Palestinian groups in operations against military and strategic targets.

5. Comparison with Similar Systems

• The Fajr system is compared to rocket launchers like the Russian BM-21 Grad and similar Chinese systems.
• Advanced versions (like Fajr-5) compete with modern systems due to their high accuracy and guided capabilities.
• The Fajr-5 system belongs to the category of multiple rocket launchers like the Russian BM-30 Smerch or the American M270 MLRS, with lower range and accuracy but offering local production and reduced costs.

6. Achievements

As a cornerstone of Iran's rocket artillery power, the Fajr system has significantly strengthened the defensive deterrence and offensive capabilities of Iran’s armed forces. It is a key asset for the Iranian military and the IRGC. Regarding exports, this system has been observed in countries like Syria.