Iran tests improved missile

Iran has successfully test fired a missile with enhanced guidance systems to hit ground targets, its defence minister said today.

General Ahmad Vahidi did not say when or where the test was carried out.

But Vahidi’s comments come a day before the start-up operations at the Bushehr nuclear power plant in southern Iran and could raise Western fears about another advance in Iran’s missile arsenal, which already can target Israel and other parts of the region.

Vahidi told worshippers ahead of Friday prayers at Tehran University that the liquid-fuelled missile – named Qiam-1 – has an improved targeting system to strike with higher precision.

Vahidi’s speech was broadcast live on state radio.