Iran‘s Revolutionary Guards introduced the Fattah II hypersonic missile on Monday. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran, unveiled this advanced weapon at the Ashura Aerospace Science and Technology University. The Fattah II represents an upgraded version with the inclusion of a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV), enabling it to achieve speeds ranging from Mach 5 to 20 (6170–24700 kph).
The Iranian media reported that the Fattah II surpasses the capabilities of advanced anti-ballistic missiles possessed by Israel and the United States. This unveiling comes after Iran’s successful test-firing of the Fatah I in June 2023.
The geopolitical significance of this development is notable, particularly in the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Israel, engaged in a continuous war with Hamas in Gaza and facing skirmishes with the Iran-backed Hezbollah in the West Bank, views Iran as a significant supporter of both Hamas and Hezbollah. The unveiling of the Fattah II adds a layer of complexity to the existing tensions and war of words between Iran and Israel.
Recent reports suggesting that the Hamas military commander, Yahya Sinwar, is conducting professional armed training for Hamas members in Hezbollah military commands underscore the intricate dynamics in the region. The unveiling of the Fattah II marks a critical moment in the ongoing geopolitical landscape, where military capabilities play a crucial role in shaping the balance of power and influencing strategic decisions among nations in the Middle East.
