Iran says starts production of 2 new missiles
State radio reports Defense Minister Vahidi inaugurated production lines for anti-helicopter, anti-armor missiles just days after Tehran launches rocket capable of carrying satellite
Iran officially started production of two new missiles on Saturday, state radio said.
Defense Minister Ahmad Vahidi inaugurated production lines for the Qaem anti-helicopter missile and for the Toofan-5 anti-armor missile, it reported.
Iran is embroiled in a dispute with the West over its nuclear program and often makes announcements of progress in its military capabilities.
State radio said Toofan-5 carried two warheads and was able to destroy armored personnel carriers and tanks.
The announcement of new missile production coincided with a 10-day period marking the 31st anniversary of the 1979 Islamic revolution that toppled the US-backed shah.
It came three days after Iran said it test-launched a rocket capable of carrying a satellite, a move Washington described as a "provocative act".
In December, Iran said it test-fired a long-range, upgraded Sejil 2 missile.
Israel and the United States, the Islamic Republic's arch-foes, have not ruled out possible military action if diplomatic efforts fail to resolve the nuclear row. Iran says it would hit back if attacked.
The West suspects Iran of trying to build nuclear bombs while Iran says its program is for peaceful power generation.
