The Fateh-110 missile was first introduced in the early 2000s and quickly became one of Iran's key achievements in tactical ballistic missiles. It was developed to address Iran's need for a precise and rapid ground-to-ground missile system, relying on indigenous technology.
Iran has conducted several successful tests of the Fateh-110, showcasing its precise performance and advanced capabilities. This missile has also been utilized in military drills to demonstrate the country's deterrence power.
The Fateh-110 is a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) developed by Iran's Aerospace Industries Organization under the Ministry of Defense. It is part of Iran's missile programs aimed at enhancing defensive and deterrent capabilities. Below are some key features and details about this missile:
1. History and Development:
The Fateh-110 missile was first unveiled in 2002, and several improved versions have been developed since then.
It is based on older missile designs, such as Zelzal, and was created as a more accurate and advanced ballistic missile.
2. Technical Features:
Range: The Fateh-110 has a range of approximately 200 to 300 kilometers, classifying it as a short-range ballistic missile. Advanced versions extend the range to 300–500 kilometers.
Accuracy: With advanced guidance systems, it offers much higher precision than older missiles. Reports suggest accuracy within tens of meters.
Warheads: It is capable of carrying various warheads, including high-explosive, cluster munitions, and specialized payloads.
Fuel: The missile uses solid fuel, enabling faster and simpler launch preparation compared to liquid-fueled missiles.
3. Variants:
Fateh-110 A: The first version, unveiled in 2002.
Fateh-110 B: An improved version with better accuracy and advanced guidance systems.
Fateh-110 C: This version features significantly higher accuracy and utilizes more advanced navigation systems.
Fateh-110 D: The latest version with extended range and improved precision.
General Specifications of Fateh-110 Missile:
Type: Short-Range Ballistic Missile (SRBM)
Range:
First generation: Approximately 200 kilometers
Advanced generations: 300 to 500 kilometers
Fuel Type: Solid fuel
This missile represents a significant step in Iran’s efforts to bolster its defense and deterrence capabilities through the development of indigenous technology.
Fateh-110 Missile: Technical Specifications and Strategic Importance
Technical Specifications:
Speed: Hypersonic (above Mach 5)
Guidance: Equipped with advanced guidance systems for high precision
Warhead Weight: Approximately 500 kilograms
Launch Platforms: Deployable from both mobile and fixed launchers
Developed Variants of Fateh-110:
Fateh-313: With a range of 500 kilometers and improved accuracy compared to earlier versions.
Zolfaghar: An upgraded variant with a range of 700 kilometers, capable of carrying specialized warheads.
Radar-Guided Missiles: Certain versions are equipped with radar guidance systems to enhance accuracy against moving targets.
The Fateh-110 is one of Iran's most significant short-range ballistic missiles, playing a critical role in the country's defensive strategy due to its precision and advanced capabilities. Its continuous development and enhancement underscore Iran's efforts to bolster its regional deterrence.
Expert Opinions on Fateh-110:
According to Fabian Hinz, a defense and military researcher at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, the Fateh-110 is now considered a "very, very good" precision-guided missile. He described it as a highly versatile, effective, and user-friendly system, adding that it is likely the primary design for Iran's solid-fuel missiles.
The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has categorized the Fateh-110 as a short-range, solid-fuel ballistic missile capable of carrying up to 500 kilograms of explosive payload. The missile is believed to be designed for high-explosive, chemical, or submunition warheads and is speculated to have the capability to carry a nuclear warhead as well.
Some versions of the Fateh-110 have a range of up to 500 kilometers (approximately 300 miles), putting them on par with the U.S. Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) or Germany's long-range Taurus cruise missile. While U.S. President Joe Biden has pledged to provide ATACMS missiles to Ukraine, details remain scarce.
Hinz noted that the Fateh missiles, with a 300-mile range, are generally comparable to the ATACMS in navigation technology, although the Fateh is larger and heavier. While ATACMS may be more precise and reliable, it is also more expensive.
Additional Details on Fateh-110:
Range and Accuracy: The missile has a range of 300 kilometers and is capable of striking land and sea targets with an accuracy of less than 10 meters.
Dimensions:
Weight: 3,450 kilograms (including a 500-kilogram warhead)
Length: 8.86 meters
Fourth Generation: Unveiled in 2012, the fourth-generation Fateh-110 features an extended range of 400 kilometers.
On September 8, 2018, the Fateh-110 was used in a retaliatory operation, striking the Kurdistan Democratic Party’s base in northern Iraq, resulting in the death of 16 members, including six senior officials.
On March 13, 2022, Fateh-110 missiles targeted a Mossad base in Erbil, Iraq.
Three years later, the Fateh missiles reportedly reached the heart of Tel Aviv, countering claims by Netanyahu about neutralizing the unity of resistance forces.
The Fateh-110’s continuous advancements and operational successes highlight its strategic significance in bolstering Iran’s defense and regional deterrence capabilities.
