Inclusion in this chronology does not necessarily indicate that a particular development is of direct or indirect proliferation significance. Some entries provide international or domestic context for technological development and national policymaking. Moreover, some entries may refer to developments with positive consequences for nonproliferation.

Early 2000
Western intelligence sources say North Korea is helping Iraq in its medium-range missile and nuclear weapons programs. Sources say Iraq is trying to acquire its pre-1991 strategic weapons capability by increasing its oil revenue through enhanced exports. Former UN chief arms inspector Richard Butler says that Iraqi weaponization would continue to pose a threat to the United States and Israel. U.S. experts say that despite repeated appeals, North Korea also continues to sell intermediate- and long-range missiles such as the Nodong and Taepodong-1 to Iran, Syria, and Libya. Sources say that commercial contacts are mostly used to hide the weapons transactions. Aerospace Industries Organization (AIO) announces that it is manufacturing another longer-range anti-tank guided weapon (ATGW) called Toophan.
—Christopher F. Foss, "Iran offers new anti-tank missiles for export," Jane's Missiles & Rockets, 1 July 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

2000
Several Chinese and North Korean firms supposedly help Iran in its weapons procurement, leading to the U.S. government imposing sanctions against the two Asian countries. The Chinese Jiangsu Yongli Chemicals and Technology Import and Export Corp. provides "technical assistance controlled under a multilateral regime," according to Susan Pittman, U.S. State Department spokesperson.
—Reuters, "U.S. says Chinese and North Korean firms aid Iran weapons bid," South China Morning Post, 28 June 2001, <http://www.scmp.com>.

2000
According to Anthony Cordesman of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, most estimates indicate that Iran has between 6 and 12 Scud-B launchers, and as many as 200 Scud-B ballistic missiles, with a range of 230-310km. Other sources, including Israel, indicate that the number could be as high as 300 Scud-Bs with 15 launchers. U.S. analysts say that Iran can domestically produce all of the Scud-B, except for the most sophisticated components of the guidance system and motors. Iran may also have between 5 and 10 Scud-C launchers, each with several missiles. This number probably includes four transporter-erector launchers (TELs) that Iran received from North Korea in 1995. The North Korean Scud-C has a range of 500km, carrying a 700kg warhead. Iran has reportedly tested the new missiles from mobile launchers near Qom, to a target area about 500km south of Shahroud. Iran may be working with Syria on developing chemical or biological warheads for the Scud-C. North Korea may have sold such technology to Iran as part of the Scud-C sale.
—Anthony H. Cordesman, Iran and Nuclear Weapons (Washington, DC: Center for Strategic and International Studies, 7 February 2000), pp. 35-36.

2000
According to a senior research professor at the Center for Counterproliferation Research at the U.S. National Defense University, Iran will likely possess a missile capable of reaching the United States by 2010. Given continued technical support from Russia, the main problem Iran faces is the development of long-range ballistic missile warheads capable of delivering weapons of mass destruction.
—W. Seth Carus, "Iran and Weapons of Mass Destruction," 3 July 1999, <http://www.ajc.org>.

January 2000
Iran inaugurates a new production line for mass production of the Towsan-1 and M113 anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM). The ATGM is believed to be a local version of the Russian Konkurs (AT-5 Spandrel), which was developed by the Tula KBP Instrument Design Bureau. The missile is expected to be installed on Iranian-designed and built light-armored vehicles. The Parchin Missile Industries Division of the Iranian DIO has been manufacturing an improved version of the Russian AT-3b Sagger anti-tank guided weapon (ATGW) under the local name of I-Raad. Iran is also believed to be making a reverse-engineered copy of the U.S. Raytheon Systems tube-launched optically-tracked wire-guided ATGW as well as a McDonnell Douglas Dragon ATGW. Both of these missiles were supplied in large numbers before the fall of the Shah.
—Christopher F. Foss, "Iran starts mass production of Russian Konkurs missile," Jane's Defence Weekly, 12 January 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

3 January 2000
Unnamed intelligence sources say Iran's 18 missile programs are mired in enough bureaucratic, financial, and technical dilemmas to prevent the completion of any one over the next year. These difficulties involve a lack of proper coordination with Russian companies and failure to integrate Russian subsystems into the North Korean missile design. The intelligence source states that Iran is pursuing so many missile programs in an effort to compensate for its lack of air power.
—Steve Rodan, "Iran's Missile Programs are Said to Be Stuck," Middle East Newsline, 3 January 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

3 January 2000
According to Israeli intelligence sources, Iran has 18 missile programs involving surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missiles, but the projects are hindered by bureaucratic, financial, and technical difficulties. "We are talking about an extraordinarily large number of projects for any country, let alone a developing country such as Iran, but the lion's share of these programs will never be completed," states one intelligence source. The most important programs are the Shahab-3 with a range of 1,300km and the Shahab-4, expected to have a range of up to 2,400km. The intelligence sources say the Shahab-3 is based on the North Korean Nodong missile, which was previously exported to Iran. Despite assistance from Russia, Iran decides to halt plans to produce a significant number of the Shahab-3 due to technical and financial difficulties. Among the problems with the Shahab-3 program are the lack of coordination with Russian companies, and the failure to integrate Russian subsystems into the North Korean missile design. According to the same sources, Iran will likely focus most of its efforts on producing the Shahab-4, and will conduct only one or two tests before deployment. Iran is also likely to bypass problems with the Shahab-3 program by purchasing the North Korean Taepodong-1, which has a range between 4,000 and 6,000km. U.S. officials say Iran sold Scud-B and C missiles to the Democratic Republic of Congo in October 1999. Iran is also believed to be developing the Shahab-5 with an expected range of up to 10,000km, which could be completed by 2010.
—Steve Rodan, "Iran's Missile Programs Are Said to Be Stuck," Middle East Newsline (Jerusalem), 3 January 2000; in "Israel: Iranian Missile Program in Difficulties," FBIS Document FTS20000103000886, 3 January 2000.

3 January 2000
According to a spokesman for Iran's Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces, Keyvan Khosravi, allegations that Iran purchased "Rodong" (Nodong) missiles from North Korea are false. The Japanese Broadcasting Network (NHK) cites Japan's defense agency on the allegations, which Khosravi says are unfounded. "A country which is capable of building long-range Shahab-3 missiles does not need to buy similar weapons from abroad," he says, emphasizing Iran's self-sufficiency.
—"Iran Denies Buying Missiles From Abroad," IRNA (Tehran), 3 January 1999; in FBIS Document FTS19990103000224, 3 January 1999.

5 January 2000
Israel plans to upgrade its Arrow anti-tactical ballistic missile (ATBM) defense system due to concern over the Iranian missile program. The Arrow-2 system will be able to intercept missiles such as the Iranian Shahab-3 and Shahab-4. According to an Israeli official, "The goal is that by the time Iran completes the Shahab-3 or Shahab-4, we will be ready with an answer."
—Steve Rodan, "Israel plans upgrade for Arrow-2 missile system," Jane's Defence Weekly, 5 January 2000.

11 January 2000
According to a South Korean government source, North Korea helps Iran improve the accuracy of the target identification system of its C801 and C802 naval cruise missiles.
The Iranian Navy hopes to improve its coastal defense and anti-ship capability with the joint program. Iran received about half of the 150, 80-mile-range C802s ordered from China before the supply was frozen in 1997. In the early 1990s, Iran purchased the 30-mile-range C801 missile from China. The C802 closely resembles France's Exocet missile, but the French manufacturer, Aerospatiale, denies any technology exchange took place.
—Chu Yong-song, "North Korea, Iran, and Egypt Work Together to Develop Missiles," Yonhap (Seoul), 12 January 2000; in "DPRK Said to Aid Development of Iran, Egypt's Missiles," FBIS Document FTS20000113000046, 13 January 2000; Michael Evans, "Tehran Upgrades Chinese Missile," Times (London), 11 January 2000; in "UK Daily: Iran, DPRK Upgrade Chinese Missile," FBIS Document FTS20000111000858, 11 January 2000.

11 January 2000
Iran and North Korea work together to improve the accuracy of a naval cruise missile that Tehran bought from China in the mid-1990s. The new weapon is an improved version of the Chinese C802 cruise missile, which resembles France's Exocet missile. The joint program is intended to provide the Iranian Navy with an advanced weapon capable of being used in a coastal defense or anti-ship role. According to intelligence sources, Iran received about 75 C802 missiles of 128km range in 1997. The missiles do not have target designation systems, which is why Iran is developing the advanced equipment with the help of North Korea. Latest reports indicate that North Korea is working on an "over-the-horizon" designation system to increase the chances of a successful hit.
—Michael Evans, "Tehran Upgrades Chinese Missiles," Times (London), 11 January 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

12 January 2000
According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, Ichiro Takahashi and Tsuneo Ishida, former directors of Sun Beam K.K. trading firm, are arrested on 12 January on suspicion of exporting a total of 3,100 sighting lenses for RPG-7 anti-tank rocket launchers to Iran in April and December 1995. [Note: According to the Tehran Daily (Iran) 15 January 2000, the firm named is Cogao Company.] Police allege that the firm used a Japanese manufacturer to make the parts with Russian technology. According to Tokyo's Sankei Shimbun paper, Sunbeam sold the sighting lenses to Iran Electronics Industry. The police also suspect the Iranian Embassy in Tokyo was involved in making payment for the lenses. The Kyodo reports that this is believed to be the first case of illegal export of military equipment from Japan to Iran since 1991, when Japan Aviation Electronics Industry Ltd. exported missile parts. However, the Sankei Shimbun reports the investigation has revealed evidence that Sunbeam illegally exported an additional 2,500 sighting lenses to Iran in 1994. The lenses exported to Iran are very similar to those found in a North Korean submarine that ran aground in South Korean waters, and police believe that North Korea may be importing this and other military equipment from Iran.
—"Tokyo Firm Head Nabbed for Illegal Exports to Iran," Jiji Press (Tokyo), 12 January 2000; in FBIS Document FTS20000112000125, 12 January 2000; "Police Suspect that DPRK Imports Japanese Parts From Iran," Sankei Shimbun (Tokyo), 16 January 2000, p. 1; in FBIS Document FTS20000118000572, 18 January 2000; "What's Up?" Iran Daily (Tehran), 15 January 2000; in "Iran Daily Views Current Events," FBIS Document FTS20000115000404, 15 January 2000.

12 January 2000
According to the Times (London), North Korea agrees to supply technology and equipment to aid Iran in upgrading the C802 anti-shipping and cruise missiles it purchased from China in the early 1990s and deployed on French and Chinese-built missile boats in the Persian Gulf and in coastal batteries. China has promised the United States several times to stop deliveries of the C802 to Iran, but U.S. intelligence reports last year documented deliveries by China far in excess of what has publicly been reported. The C802s were assembled in Iran under a co-producing agreement signed with Communist China, and use a sophisticated motor supplied by a French manufacturer. The French government denies any knowledge of the sale, and the company, Microturbo, denies any wrongdoing. The latest reports indicate that North Korea is working on an "over-the-horizon" designation system for Iran's arsenal of hundreds of C802s, to increase the chances of a successful hit.
—"North Korea upgrades Iranian C802," The Iran Brief, 12 January 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

12 January 2000
Iran and China work together to improve the accuracy of a version of the Chinese C802 cruise missile that has a 30-mile range. In the 1990s, Iran ordered 150, 80-mile-range C802s, but the order was frozen under U.S. pressure in 1997; 75 of the C802s were shipped to Iran.
—Michael Evans, "Tehran Upgrades Chinese Missile," IAEA Daily Press Review, 12 January 2000; "Iranian-North Korean Cooperation to Develop a Chinese Rocket," Al-Zaman (London), 18 February 2000, p. 3.

15 January 2000
The Japanese Metropolitan Police Department's (MPD) public safety division arrests two former executives of a now defunct Japanese optical equipment manufacturer on the suspicion that the company had exported sensitive equipment to Iran. The company, known as Sunbeam, reportedly illegally sold 3,100 sighting lenses in April and December 1995 to Iran. The sighting lenses can be used with "RPG-7" anti-tank weapons. Similar sighting lenses, also sold by Sunbeam, were found on board a North Korean submarine that ran aground in South Korean waters in September 1996. Japanese officials believe that the sighting lenses were sold to Iran, which in turn supplied them to North Korea in exchange for missile technology. North Korean defectors have reportedly told interrogators, "North Korea has imported Japan's high-tech devices necessary for the development of nuclear weapons and other military equipment through third countries." Japanese officials are concerned that equipment made in Japan and sold illegally by Japanese companies may pose a threat to Japan's security.
—"Police Suspect That DPRK Imports Japanese Parts From Iran," Sankei Shimbun (Tokyo), 16 January 2000; in FBIS Document FTS20000118000572, 18 January 2000.

18 January 2000
According to Ephraim Sneh, Israel's Deputy Defense Minister, the United States is failing in its attempts to contain Iran's nuclear capability. Sneh says that Israel must continue to build a wall of deterrence against Iran, "perhaps different and greater than the one we have today." Referring to Iran's missile arsenal, Sneh states that "it's clear that such missiles with such a large radius and warhead capability are not intended to solve their problems with Iraq, their enemy neighbor." Sneh implies that Israel might try to stop the progress of Iranian nuclear projects, but did not give specifics. He says, "there is a list of other things...but I'm not sure they should be discussed publicly." In the past, Sneh has expressed the opinion that Israel should think about launching a pre-emptive strike against Iran to destroy its nuclear facilities.
—"US Faulted on Iran Nuke Containment," Washington Post, 18 January 2000, <http://www.washingtonpost.com>.

19 January 2000
A military industry official tells ITAR-TASS that Iran has begun to mass-produce the Russian-developed 9M13 (presumably 9M113) Konkurs anti-tank missile. A military official says that the inexpensive missile can be launched autonomously or from mobile and portable anti-tank missile systems mounted on many types of vehicles. The Konkurs missile has been devised at the Tula-based instrument-making design bureau and has a range of fire from 75m to 4km in the daytime and as far as 2.5km at night. The missile warhead pierces armor as thick as 800mm. The Konkurs missile has a semi-automatic control system with the transmission of commands via a wire communication line. A license for production of the Konkurs missile was sold to Iran in the mid-90s, but it is only now that Iranian specialists have completed all work on testing the missile production technology and establishing a quantity production line, states the official. The military-industrial official declines to give the cost of the license but pointed out that the missile "was sold through the Rosvooruzheniye Company for very little money, since a military-technical cooperation system in Russia was only in the making in those years."
—"Iran begins production of anti-tank missiles," British Broadcasting Corporation, 28 January 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

19 January 2000
Moscow's ITAR-TASS reports that Iran begins mass production of the Russian-developed 9M13 Konkurs anti-tank missile. Russia's Rosvooruzheniye Company sold the license and production technology to Iran in the mid-1990s, but Iran has only recently set up a quantity production line. The missile has a range between 75m and 4km, or as far as 2.5km at night. It can be launched autonomously or from mobile and portable anti-tank missile systems. The missile has a semi-automatic control system and commands are transmitted via a wire communication line.
—Nikolay Novichkov, "Iran Begins Production of Russian Antitank Missile," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 19 January 2000; in FBIS Document FTS20000119000716, 19 January 2000.

20 January 2000
During an official visit to Belarus, an Iranian parliamentary delegation led by Hasan Rowhani, deputy chairman of the Majles (Iranian Parliament) visits the MAZ auto enterprise, which produces chassis for mobile missile launchers. The Iranian delegation also meets with officials from the Russian and Belarus military-industrial complex, after discussions in Moscow over construction of a nuclear power station.
—Sergey Anisko, "Asian Dimension of Belarusian Military-Industrial Complex," Segodnya (Moscow), 20 January 2000, p. 4; in "Iran Deputy Speaker Visits Belarus Military Plants," FBIS Document FTS20000120001299, 20 January 2000.

27 January 2000
Iran inaugurates the mass production line of the Towsan-1 anti-armor guided missile, which is designed to destroy different types of state-of the-art tanks, armored vehicles, dams and concrete structures, and can be launched from ground-delivery systems as well as a variety of domestically manufactured personnel carriers. The missile has a range of 4,000m, and is equipped with a night-vision device that enables it to accurately reach and destroy a target in the dark as far as 2,500m away. Both the Army and the Navy use this missile in their tactical operations. The warhead of the missile is composed of two parts, a forward section, and a main section, enabling it to destroy installations armed with responsive ground-to-air defense capabilities. Iranian Defense Minister Ali Shamkhani states, "The Towsan-1 and M113 demonstrates our highest achievement in missile manufacturing, and its production line was inaugurated by domestic experts today. We hope that after meeting our internal quota, we will be able to acquire a share of the regional market as well. This is also part of the production plan."
—"Iranian defence minister praises new missile production facility," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 27 January 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

31 January 2000
According to Iranian Defense Minister Admiral Ali Shamkhani, Iran is now self-sufficient in producing solid fuel for rockets. Three major research and industrial projects are commissioned at the Education and Research Institute of the Defense Ministry. The projects include production of hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene (HTPD) resin, aluminum powder and potassium chlorite, which Shamkhani claims is "the last link in the chain" of solid-fuel production.
—"Iran Self-Sufficient in Rocket Solid Fuel Production," IRIB Television First Program Network (Tehran), 31 January 2000; in FBIS Document FTS20000131000670, 31 January 2000.

31 January 2000
According to the 1998 report of the independent "Commission to Assess the Ballistic Missile Threat to the United States," known as the Rumsfeld Commission, U.S. forces today are virtually unequipped to defend against the existing long-range missile threats from North Korea, Iran, and Libya. If full funding of about $500 million a year were available, the U.S. Navy could deploy a limited Navy Theater Wide (NTW) missile defense capability as early as 2003. The NTW system would be capable of defending against the threat posed by ballistic missiles such as the North Korean Nodong or the Iranian Shahab-3. The initial NTW would comprise test versions of the SM-3 Standard anti-air missile outfitted with the Lightweight Exoatmospheric Projectile, which destroys enemy ballistic missiles by ramming them at high speeds. This system would be capable of defending against "an unsophisticated separating warhead threat." Pentagon officials so far have authorized the Navy only to finish the test program for NTW. Decisions about production and deployment are being deferred, pending successful testing. A growing number of the U.S. scientists, military experts and congressional aids say that it is time to slow the pace of national missile defense (NMD) program, and perform more tests before attempting any more live flight-tests.
—Robert Holzer, "U.S. Navy Urges Funding for Limited NTW," Defense News, 31 January 2000; Gopal Ratnam, "Defense Experts Urge Slower Approach to NMD Program," Defense News, 31 January 2000.

February 2000
According to James Cotton, U.S. specialists maintain that North Korea is developing a longer-range version of the Taepodong missile that could strike targets in the continental United States and much of Asia by 2003. North Korea has exported about 400 Scud-type missiles to Iran, Syria, and Pakistan. Cotton asserts that at present, despite having a missile development program, North Korea does not have the capability to arm its missiles with nuclear warheads.
—James Cotton, "North Korea Nuclear and Missile Nonproliferation and Regional Security," Australia and Security Cooperation in the Asia Pacific (AUS-CSCAP) Newsletter No. 9, February 2000, .

February 2000
According to Anthony Cordesman of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Iran's missile development programs include a design center, at least two assembly plants, a test range and monitoring complex, and a variety of other design and re-fit facilities. Iran's Defense Technology and Science Research Center operates the design center outside Karaj, near Tehran. Iran's largest missile assembly and production plant is a North Korean-built facility near Isfahan. This plant may also employ Chinese equipment and technology. Local industries may be producing liquid fuels and missile parts. China may also be helping Iran produce solid-fueled rocket motors, and assemble missiles such as the CS-801 and CS-802. Iran is also reportedly extending the range of Scud missile with Russian assistance, and developing the 700km Tondar-68 missile. Some reports claim that Iran has divided its missile production sites into plants near Pairzan, Seman, Shiraz, Maghdad, and Islaker. Companies allegedly involved in missile production are also involved in producing poison gas. These include the Defense Industries, Shahid, Bagheri Industrial Group, and Shahid Hemat Industrial Group. Iran's main missile test range is near Shahroud, along the Tehran-Mashhad railway, with a telemetry station 350km south, at Taba. These facilities are likely controlled by the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps.
—Anthony H. Cordesman, Iran and Nuclear Weapons (Washington, DC: Center for Strategic and International Studies, 7 February 2000), p. 37.

February 2000
Israeli and U.S. intelligence assessments indicate that Iran is developing the 2,000km-range Shahab-4 missile, with a 2,000-pound payload. The system could be operational within five years. The Shahab-4 may be based on the Soviet SS-4, and some reports indicate it has a range of up to 4,000km with a 1-ton payload. Russian firms have supplied much technology and material to Iran's missile programs, including specialized laser equipment, mirrors, tungsten-coast graphite material, and maraging steel.
—Anthony H. Cordesman, Iran and Nuclear Weapons (Washington, DC: Center for Strategic and International Studies, 7 February 2000), pp. 40-41.

February-March 2000
Iran test-fires two rounds of a missile, said to be an improved version of the RIM-66 Standard SM-1 surface-to-air missile. According to Iranian spokesman Rear Admiral Abdullah Manavi, the development of the missile—assigned the name Fajr—took almost four years. Some of the parts of the modified missile had been built by the Iranian Navy experts. The missile's electronics have been digitized, permitting the use of a frequency-agile receiver for the semi-active command guidance system. This affords greater resistance to jamming measures. The solid-fueled motors, warhead, and power cells are now being manufactured indigenously. Manavi also says that an air-launched anti-ship missile (ASM) identified as the "Fajr-e Darya," a locally assembled version of the Chinese C802 ASM, is successfully tested during the Vahdat-78 military exercises. Rear Admiral Abbas Mohtaj, commander of the Navy, says that an "upgraded fire-control system" is employed during the test-firings. Manavi says that all the systems, projects and equipment used in the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), Army, and Navy exercises are designed by research staff of the Iranian Navy in cooperation with other scientific and industrial centers of the armed forces.
—Doug Richardson, "Iran-Upgraded Standard test-fired," Jane's Defence Upgrades, 16 April 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

February 2000
Gulf sources report that an air-launched variant of the C802, dubbed the "Fajr-e-Darya" and an upgraded version of the U.S. RIM-66 Standard SM-1 SAM, undergo initial tests during the "Vahdat-78" exercises in February.
—Ed Blanche, "Iranian Navy test-fires new and modified missiles during exercises," Jane's Defence Weekly, 15 November 2000, p. 14.

1 February 2000
Iran's Network 1 TV station reports that the Zolfaqar-e-Velayat-1 military exercises begin with "heli-borne operations carried out by the pious, crack commandos of the Ground Forces" including training in heavy artillery and 107mm missile launchers.
—"Iran: Main Phase of War Games Begin," Vision of the Islamic Republic of Iran Network 1 (Tehran), 1 February 2000; in FBIS Document FTS20000201300543, 1 February 2000.

2 February 2000
A Japanese newspaper reports that Iran and North Korea plan to upgrade the C802 cruise missile that Iran purchased from China in the mid-1990s to make it more accurate.
—"N. Korea, Iran Jointly Develop Missile Project," Korea Times, 2 February 2000.

2 February 2000
According to the Hong Kong AFP, Japanese police look for an Iranian national, Masoud Momtahan, 38, alleged to be involved in the illegal export case involving the Sunbeam Company and sale of sighting lenses for anti-tank rocket launchers. Police say Momtahan is suspected of ordering 3,100 lenses, which are banned for export without special permission under Japanese law. The police will not confirm reports that the Iranian embassy in Tokyo is linked to the case. According to the Hong Kong AFP, the Japanese paper Asahi Shimbun reports that the Iranian Embassy paid ¥6.1 million in March 1994 as an advance payment for 5,600 sighting lenses, which were shipped in three installments from April 1994 to December 1995. The embassy has denied the allegations. The Hong Kong AFP also reports that one of the Japanese suspects from Sunbeam, Ichiro Takahashi, purchased the lenses from an Israeli dealer for "several hundred dollars" and then subcontracted a Japanese factory to modify the lenses to aim at taller tanks.
—"AFP: Japan Hunts Iranian Over Arms Export Scandal," AFP (Hong Kong) 2 February 2000; in FBIS Document FTS20000202000302, 2 February 2000.

2 February 2000
A Japanese newspaper reports that Iran and North Korea plan to upgrade a missile that Iran purchased from China in the mid-1990s to make it more accurate. The missile, China's C802 cruise missile, has a range of 120km. The article states that Iran uses North Korean know-how to improve its missiles, and in return, North Korea can earn foreign currency and oil.
—"N. Korea, Iran Jointly Develop Missile: Report," Korea Times, 2 February 2000.

4 February 2000
Boris Labusov, the chief of the Press Center of the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service, denies CIA Director George Tenet's allegations of Russia's continuing exports of chemical, biological, and ballistic missile production technologies to Iran. According to Labusov, the United States does not support these statements with verifiable evidence. Labusov did not comment on reports that hackers from Russian special services could have broken into the personal computer of former CIA Chief John Deutch.
—"SVR denies CIA director's allegations of continuing exports of rocket technologies from Russia to Iran," Interfax, 4 February 2000.

5 February 2000
Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran reports that assembly lines for the production of heavy anti-armor missile launchers are put into operation today. According to Iranian TV, the launchers are for Tufan storm missiles. Another project that started today relates to the production of testing equipment, which will be used by those who are involved in the repair and the maintenance of missiles.
—"Defense minister inaugurates advanced electronic projects in Shiraz," BBC Worldwide Monitoring," 6 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; "Defense minister comments on electronics projects," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 6 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

5 February 2000
According to Iranian Defense Minister Vice-Admiral Ali Shamkhani, six defense projects are implemented in Shiraz. The projects include producing launchers for the Tufan (storm) heavy anti-tank missile and producing "testers" to assist in repair and maintenance of missiles.
—"Production of Anti-Tank Missile Launchers Begins," Vision of the Islamic Republic of Iran Network 1 (Tehran), 5 February 2000; in FBIS Document FTS20000205000864, 5 February 2000.

6 February 2000
According to a report by the German Intelligence Service (BND), Iran undergoes "massive armament efforts...to procure high-quality weapon systems, especially for the land and naval forces." The report says North Korea helps Iran to develop longer-range delivery vehicles, including the development of a longer-range anti-ship cruise missile, and unmanned aerial vehicles. According to the report, Iran uses dealers in Dubai for technology procurement, as well as the Bonyad Mostafaza Ve Janzeban Foundation, which makes legal purchases for many Iranian firms, but also maintains bogus firms abroad to facilitate the transfers.
—"German Report Notes Iran's Nuclear Arms Efforts," Frankfurter Rundschau, (Frankfurt/Main), 6 February 2000; in FBIS Document EUP20000305000169, 5 March 2000.

7 February 2000
Iran's Khorasan paper reports that at a 6 February conference in Munich, U.S. Defense Secretary William Cohen said Iran likely will have technology for long-distance ballistic missiles within the next 5-10 years. The report also quotes CIA director George Tenet as saying, "The Iranian authorities have asked countries like Russia, China, and North Korea, as well as West European countries, to give them access to the technology and equipment related to weapons of mass destruction." In response, Dr. Hamidreza Asefi, a spokesman for Iran's Foreign Affairs Ministry, strongly denies the statements and says, "These claims are being made in a situation in which the Zionist regime is still the source of threat and danger in the region, and this regime's policy of high expectations is the cause of instability in the region."
—"Discussed With Seyyed Baqer Mir-Abbasi, Director of Legal and International Group at Tehran University's Political Sciences College: 'Hidden Policy of America, and Continuous Statements Against Iran'," Khorasan (Mashhad), 7 February 2000, p. 3; in "Iran: US Said Trying to Pressure Iran," FBIS Document IAP20000323000012, 23 March 2000.

9 February 2000
Robert Walpole, national intelligence officer for strategic and nuclear programs, tells Congress that North Korea continues to supply ballistic missile components and technology to other hostile countries. The official says that North Korea has been so active lately that it has "supplanted Russia as the major supplier of technical know-how and equipment for missile programs." However, the official would not confirm a recent report in the Washington Times that North Korea transferred twelve missile engines to Iran in November 1999. The official also noted that North Korea was continuing the development of its own ballistic missiles despite a pledge to halt the program. According to the Washington Times, Walpole says, "Those engines are critical to the Taepodong program, and they would be critical to the Shahab-3 program and any extensions of the Shahab-3 program." It is believed that North Korea may be able to deploy intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of reaching the United States within the next ten years.
—Christopher Wilson, "North Korea Said Major Supplier of Missile Parts," Reuters, 9 February 2000, in Excite.News, <http://news.excite.com>; Bill Gertz, "'Critical' N. Korea Missile Parts Seen Aiding Iran's Program," Washington Times, 10 February 2000, p. A3.

9 February 2000
North Korea sold 12 medium-range ballistic missile engines to Iran. According to U.S. intelligence reports, the engines arrived in Iran on 21 November 1999 via an Iran Air Boeing 747 cargo jet from Sunan International Airfield, located 12 miles north of Pyongyang, North Korea. The missile engines are the same as those of the Nodong medium-range missile, which has a range of 620 miles. Iran used the Nodong engine to build the first stage of the Shahab-3 missile.
—Bill Gertz, "N. Korea sells Iran missile engines," Washington Times, 9 February 2000, <http://www.washingtontimes.com>.

9 February 2000
North Korea's nuclear program has been constrained since 1994 by the Agreed Framework. However, the agreement is threatened by a possible North Korean missile test, according to James Cotton. The North Korean nuclear program is visibly halted, but the North Korean missile program has been under no such constraints. U.S. specialists maintain that North Korea is developing a longer-range version of the Taepodong missile, which could strike targets in the continental United States and much of Asia by 2003. North Korea has exported about 400 Scud-type missiles to Iran, Syria, and Pakistan. Cotton asserts that at present, despite having a missile development program, North Korea does not have the capability to marry the missile and nuclear technology.
—James Cotton, "North Korea Nuclear and Missile Proliferation and Regional Security," Australia and Security Cooperation in the Asia Pacific (AUS-CSCAP) Newsletter No. 9, February 2000, <http://www.aus-cscap.anu.edu.au>.

9 February 2000
Robert Walpole, the Central Intelligence Agency's official for strategic and nuclear issues, tells a Senate hearing that North Korea continues to develop its long-range ballistic missiles despite recent promises to stop development. Walpole testifies that even if active missile testing is not taking place, North Korea is still testing various missile components on the ground. Walpole also says that North Korea continues to be involved in the sale and trade of ballistic missile parts and technology with Iran.
—Tom Raum, "CIA Agent Warns on Korean Missiles," AP, 10 February 2000, in ExciteNews, 10 February 2000, <http://www.news.excite.com>.

12 February 2000
An Israeli soldier killed on 11 February is believed to have been a casualty of an American-made missile. Intelligence sources believe that TOW anti-tank weapons, supplied to Iran in 1986, were transferred to Hezbollah via Syria during the last two months.
—"Israelis Killed by US Missiles," Times (London), 12 February 2000, <http://www.sunday-times.co.uk>.

13 February 2000
The latest evidence of Iran's involvement in the upsurge of violence in Southern Lebanon occurred at the end of last week when an anti-tank missile fired by Hizbollah fighters killed an Israeli soldier.
—Con Coughlin and Tom Gross, "International: Iran 'arms Hizbollah' for attacks on Israel Tehran blamed for recent spate of attacks on Lebanon," Sunday Telegraph (London), 13 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

14 February 2000
It is believed that the YJ-1 is being built under license in Iran, where it has the name "Karus." "Huangfen" fast-attack craft, known as "Hudong," have been exported to Iran for use with both YJ-1 and YJ-2 missiles, and YJ-2 missiles are being built in Iran with the name "Tondar." Reports in 1994 indicated that an increased-range version of the YJ-2 was in development as well, designated YJ-21. A second development, YJ-22, was reported in 1997, which added wings to the YJ-21 designs to increase its range to 400km.
—"CSS-N-4 'Sardine' (YJ-1/C801) and CSSC-8 'Saccade' (YJ-2/C802)," Jane's Strategic Weapons Systems 33, in Jane's Online, <http://fore.Thomson.com>.

14 February 2000
According to North Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov and his North Korean counterpart, Paek Nam-Sun, discuss missile cooperation during Ivanov's visit to North Korea. KCNA reports that this move comes in response to increasing Japanese and U.S. efforts to set up a theater missile defense system. William Schneider, a U.S. expert on international security, says that within five years North Korea, Iran, Russia, and China will possess a nuclear potential sufficient to inflict major destruction on the United States, even if their systems are inferior to U.S. systems in accuracy and capability. Russia and North Korea sign a new friendship pact requiring each country not to support any state that attacks the other.
—"North Korea and Russia to cooperate on missiles," Middle East Newsline, 14 February 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

17 February 2000
According to "Western military sources" quoted in Japan's Sankei Shimbun, North Korea and Iran jointly develop an advanced version of the Chinese C802 cruise missile. According to the source, North Korea helps Iran improve the accuracy of the C802 missiles. Iran first purchased the missiles, with a range of 120km, from China in the mid 1990s. However, Iran only received about half of the anticipated 150 missiles before the sales were halted under United States' demands. The Sankei Shimbun also reports that North Korea has sold missiles to Iran and Pyongyang, and may have received money from Tehran to jointly develop the C802.
—"Japanese Report: DPRK, Iran Jointly Develop Missiles," Korea Times (Seoul), 17 February 2000; in FBIS Document KPP20000217000057, 17 February 2000.

17 February 2000
The Sankei Shimbun reports that North Korea and Iran are jointly developing a new missile based on China's C802 cruise missile. The report claims that Iran had acquired about 125 C802 cruise missiles from China in the mid-1990s, but that China suspended sales to Iran after the United States demanded a halt to the sales in 1996.
—Kyodo News Service, 17 February 2000, in "Sankei Shimbun: DPRK, Iran Jointly Developing Missile," FBIS Document ID JPP20000217000006.

18 February 2000
IRNA reports that the Iranian press attaché, Heshmatollah Qalami-Zadeh, says, "The Iranian government denies allegations on any kind of cooperation between Tehran and Pyongyang on missile technology." Iran is accused of having a huge stock of Silkworm missiles.
—"Iran denies Japanese paper report on missile cooperation with North Korea," British Broadcasting Corporation, 19 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; "Iran's President Khatami to visit China," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 22 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

18 February 2000
Press attaché Heshmatollah Qalami-Zadeh of the Iranian embassy in Tokyo denies allegations of Iranian cooperation on missile projects with North Korea. The spokesman says, "the Iranian government denies allegations of any kind of [missile] cooperation between Tehran and Pyongyang." He points to Iran's self-sufficiency, saying, "the Islamic Republic of Iran has the necessary defense power and does not need foreign assistance."
—"Iran Denies Cooperating With DPRK on Missile Technology," IRNA (Tehran), 18 February 2000; in FBIS Document IAP20000218000020, 18 February 2000.

18 February 2000
China rejects accusations that it cooperates with Iran in developing weapons of mass destruction, including missiles, nuclear weapons, and chemical weapons.
—"The Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister in Teheran to launch cooperation," Agence France Presse, 18 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>. [CNS translation]

20 February 2000
Iran successfully tests the missile equipped with a North Korean engine that arrived in November. According to a U.S. intelligence source, the operational test took place from a transporter-erector launcher (TEL) at a new Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) air base at Mashhad. The test from a mobile launcher surprises the U.S. intelligence community. Reportedly, the test was regarded as a demonstration of the integration of the engine and missile subsystems.
—Steve Rodan, "Iran now able to deploy Shahab-3," Jane's Defence Weekly, 22 March 2000, p. 15.

20 February 2000
In an interview with Tehran's Sanayeye Havai newspaper, the general manager of Iran's aviation industries, Mohammad Hasan Tavalai, discusses the importance of the "PAHPAD," which can be either a manned or unmanned warplane. He says, "'PAHPAD' can be a good replacement for cruise or ballistic missiles. It can increase speed and recognize the unevenness of the terrain. Also it has a small radar surface and cannot be detected easily by radar and is easily guided. We can program it for a specific mission and can distinguish between false targets and real ones." He also stresses that the "PAHPAD" is always under control, and can be recalled or re-targeted mid-mission. The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) can also be used for a variety of missions. "In short," he says, "if we have something worthy in 'PAHPAD' (which we do), then we can move toward planning for unmanned warplanes." Tavalai also discusses the future of warfare, saying, "Evidence shows that defensive wars will be replaced by offensive wars. Offensive wars revolve around offensive arms, and its philosophy is that the first offensive move is the determining factor and whoever strikes the first blow will have the momentum."
—"In the Next 20 Years We Must Have Something Worthwhile to Say to the World in Our Aviation Industry," Sanaye-ye Havai (Tehran), 20 February 2000, pp. 2-6; in "Interview with General Manager of Aviation Industry," FBIS Document IAP20000501000095, 1 May 2000.

23 February 2000
In an interview with South Korea's Yonhap paper, Iranian Ambassador to the ROK Mohsen Talaei strongly denies alleged cooperation in missile technology with North Korea. The ambassador says the allegations are "groundless" and that "the United States should present the evidences to the world to prove its allegations." The ambassador also denies the import of North Korean missile technology on the premise that Iran's level of sophistication makes such technology transfer unnecessary. The ambassador also notes that Iran and North Korea have "ordinary" rather than "special" relations.
—Hwang Sok-chu, "Iran Strongly Requests Improved Relations With the ROK Following the General Elections in Iran; Denies Missile Cooperation With North Korea," Yonhap (Seoul), 23 February 2000; in "Interview With Iranian Envoy to ROK on Missile, Oil Prices," FBIS Document KPP20000224000102, 24 February 2000.

23 February 2000
The German chancellery head, Frank Walter Steinmeier, presents a report by the German foreign intelligence agency (BND) to the German cabinet, which states that Iraq would possess missiles with a range of 3,000km, thus capable of hitting targets in Western Europe, within five years. According to the BND, Iraq is shopping for spare parts for German machinery it bought years ago to construct high-tech weapons. The report states that Iraqi middlemen are using "dummy" companies to order machine parts and chemical processing equipment. According to the Sueddeutsche newspaper, Iran, Pakistan, and India are also actively trying to acquire atomic, biological, and chemical weapons.
—"German Assessment: Iraqi missiles will reach Europe by 2005," Deutsche Presse Agentur (Berlin), 23 February 2000, <http://www.BerlinOnline.de>.

24 February 2000
The U.S. Senate unanimously approves a bill that is designed to penalize Russia and other countries that are alleged to be aiding Iran to develop long-range ballistic missiles or nuclear weapons. According to Sen. Joseph Lieberman, the bill "sends a message to the administration" about "the broad bipartisan support here in Congress and about the need for tougher action." The bill stipulates that President Clinton is required to cut off arms sales or economic aid to countries that transfer classified technology to Iran, unless such measures would harm U.S. national security. According to a Russian foreign ministry spokesman, the bill is an attempt by the U.S. Senate to coerce Russia and other countries into compliance.
—"Senate OKs Bill Against Weapons Allies," Los Angeles Times, 25 February 2000, <http://www.latimes.com>; "Moscow Sees U.S. Senate Bill As Pressure Attempt," Interfax CIS Daily News Brief (Moscow), 25 February 2000, Volume 2, Issue 36.

24 February 2000
A report by the German Federal Intelligence Service (Bundesnachrichtendienst-BND) concludes that the illegal export of material for weapons of mass destruction (WMD) in "rogue" nations is difficult to control. The report warns that the relevant WMD in combination with correspondingly efficient missiles present a greater danger for Germany and NATO. BND considers North Korea the most active designer and exporter of carrier missiles, which are based upon the old Soviet technology of Scud missiles and have ranges of up to 500km. New longer-range missiles, called the Taepodong-1 and -2, are probably in the test or prototype stage. The BND estimates that North Korea will also attempt to export its new missile technology if there is demand in the international acquisition network that North Korea has already established. Over this network, North Korea is said to acquire missiles not only for its own needs, but also for Pakistan, Syria, and Iran. North Korea is said to use this business as a source of foreign exchange. The BND report determines the type of technology and materials likely to be subjected to illegal exports, and also describes the methods of illegal weapons acquisitions, explicitly in the example of Iraq.
—"Schwer zu Konrollieren (Difficult to Control)," Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, 24 February 2000.

24 February 2000
The naval Vahdat-78 (Unity-78) exercises, staged jointly by the three forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran's Armed Forces and the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps, begin today. The exercises involve the use of new equipment and missile facilities including the surface-to-sea Fajr-Darya missile. Spokesman of the war game, Admiral Abdollah Manavi, says that missile boats launch search operations and intercept vessels of the hypothetical enemy.
—"Army Guard Corps stage joint naval exercises," British Broadcasting Corporation, 26 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; "Iran: Naval exercises continue in the Gulf," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 28 February 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

24 February 2000
The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps opens its third air base, in Mashhad in northeastern Iran. Major General Rahim-Savavi says "the objective of this air base is to increase the defense and security capability of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the northeastern region of the country." He also says, "The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, by fully recognizing the recent regional and global developments, has taken steps to expand air bases all over the country in order to create a lasting security in the country." The commander of the IRGC adds, "The air force of the guards corps is armed with the most powerful surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missile units."
—"Iran: Guards Corps Opens Third Air Base in NE Iran," Vision of the Islamic Republic of Iran Network 1 (Tehran), 24 February 2000; in FBIS Document IAP20000224000050, 24 February 2000.

24 February 2000
Iran begins the Vahdat-78 (Unity-78) military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman. According to Iranian naval commander Rear Admiral Abbas Mohtaj, "Another objective of the exercises is the assessment of our technical capabilities [domestically manufactured equipment] produced recently, God be praised, with the help of research and industrial units of the armed forces, the country's universities and research centers. [This equipment] will be tested and assessed during the exercises." Rear Admiral Mohtaj also says they will assess a domestically designed and built air-to-surface missile, as well as the launch and fire control systems.
—"Iran: Army, IRGC Hold Joint Naval Maneuvers in Gulf," Vision of the Islamic Republic of Iran Network 1 (Tehran), 24 February 2000; in FBIS Document IAP20000224000035, 24 February 2000; "Iran: Navy Chief on Vahdat 78 Exercises," Vision of the Islamic Republic of Iran Network 2 (Tehran), 24 February 2000; in FBIS Document IAP20000224000094, 24 February 2000.

24 February 2000
The head of the German Federal Intelligence Service (BND), August Hanning, reports that Iran, as well as Iraq, Pakistan, and India, purchase missile components through subcontractors and "bogus firms" in Germany. Iran is developing the Shahab-4 missile with an expected range of 2,000km.
—Stephen Kornelius, "BND Report Views Iran, Iraq Missile Threat," Sueddeutsche Zeitung (Munich), 24 February 2000; in "Everybody is Building Missiles--BND sees Europe Endangered By Iraq's and Iran's Arms Projects," FBIS Document EUP20000223000461, 23 February 2000.

25 February 2000
The Sayyad armored vehicle is a new vehicle similar to the old M-113 personnel carriers, but with extensive modifications including the TOW missile, which is mounted on the vehicle.
—"Army commander comments on Zolfaqar-3 exercises," British Broadcasting Corporation, 27 September 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

25 February 2000
According to an official representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the bill passed by the U.S. Senate today calling for financial and economic sanctions against exporters of nuclear and missile technologies to Iran is an attempt to put pressure on Russia and other countries. The official points out that the United States alone should be held responsible for the possible negative impact of this bill on bilateral and multilateral cooperation in nonproliferation and export controls and on Russian-American relations in general. However, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Ilya Klebanov believes that while this bill applies to a number of countries suspected of military cooperation with Iran, it does not apply to Russia, since Russia does not export military nor nuclear technologies to Iran. Klebanov states that Russia and the United States will continue their cooperation in creating an international space station.
—"Moscow views the bill on sanctions for cooperation with Iran passed by the US Senate as an attempt to put pressure on Russia," Interfax, 25 February 2000.

27 February 2000
According to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, Iran has provided Lebanon with Fajr-5 rockets, which have a range up to 70km. Lebanon also has the Fajr-3 rocket, with a 43km range. Both missiles are produced by the Iranian military industry. The missiles have not been supplied to Hezbollah; rather, Iranian militants in Lebanon are in control of the weapons, which can reach the Israeli city of Haifa.
—Zeev Schiff, "Iran Supplies Lebanon Fajr Missiles, Can Hit Haifa," Haaretz (Tel Aviv), 27 February 2000; in "Missiles in Lebanon Can Hit Haifa," FBIS Document GMP20000227000052, 27 February 2000.

28 February 2000
Israeli intelligence reports that Iran has sold the Iranian-made Fajr 5 missile to the Hizbullah guerillas in Southern Lebanon. Israeli officials warn Washington that the missiles have already been moved to Lebanon, although as of today they have not been given to the Hizbullah.
—"Iranian Fajr 5 missiles can strike Haifa," Israel Wire, 28 February 2000, <http://www.isrealwire.com>.

28 February 2000
According to Israeli Deputy Defense Minister Ephraim Sneh, the United States and Israel draft a strategic pact that will probably accompany a peace agreement with Syria. The pact addresses missile or unconventional attacks on Israel. Israel specifically requests assistance "to forestall long-range threats from Iran and Iraq," including weapons of mass destruction.
—"Sneh: US, Israel Drafting Strategic Pact," Jerusalem Post, 28 February 2000, <http://www.jpost.com>.

March 2000
Currently, Iran has nine surface-to-surface missile production and research programs and four artillery rocket programs.
—Ben Sheppard, "Ballistic Missile Proliferation," Jane's Special Report, March 2000, p. 152.

March 2000
The director of the Central Intelligence Agency presents a report to the U.S. Congress that states that the Iranian Shahab-3 medium-range ballistic missile has probably achieved an emergency operational capability. The report states, "Tehran could deploy a limited number of the Shehab-3 prototype missiles in an operational mode during a perceived crisis situation." According to the Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating to Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced Conventional Munitions, suppliers in Russia and China provided a considerable amount of ballistic missile related goods and technology to Iran during the first half of 1999. The materials reportedly accelerated Iran's Shahab-3 missile program and technology provided by Russia. The materials and technology provided in the first half of 1999 are expected to accelerate Iran's development of indigenous ballistic missile systems. The report states that Iranian defense minister publicly admitted to Iran's work on the Shahab-4, which was originally classified as a more advanced ballistic missile than the Shahab-3 and later categorized as a non-military space launch vehicle. In addition, the Iranian defense minister publicly mentions plans for a Shahab-5. According to the report, North Korea has probably assisted Syria's program to manufacture Scud-C missiles. Russia is allegedly the principle source of foreign assistance for Syria's liquid-propellant missile program.
—"Iran's Shahab-3 may have 'emergency operational capability'," Jane's Missiles & Rockets, March 2000, <http://www.janes.com>.

1 March 2000
The Iranian forces successfully test-fire an improved "Standard" missile, according to reports by the official Islamic Republic News Agency. The surface-to-air missile, developed partly by the Iranian Navy's experts, was test-fired during the ongoing Vahdat-78 exercises, says spokesman of the exercises, Abdollah Manavi. However, he did not disclose the missile's range nor which countries cooperated with Iran in building the missile. The spokesman says the improvement of the missile took nearly four years and Iranian experts, saving the country millions of U.S. dollars, built some parts of the missile. The maneuvers aim to examine application of modern weapons and equipment in the Navy's arsenal, including air-to-surface missiles, military sources say.
—"Iran Successfully Test-fires Improved Missile," Xinhua General News Service, 1 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

1 March 2000
Iranian Rear Admiral Manavi announces a surface-to-air missile is successfully tested for the first time during the Vahdat-78 military maneuvers. The missile's guidance and control system as well as its launcher were designed in Iran. Iranian researchers and military experts have been modifying the missile over its standard design for the past four years. The missile will be used on the Paykan-class missile boats. Rear Admiral Manavi also announces that the Fajr-e-Daria air-to-surface missile is fired at a mock enemy during the third stage of the exercises in the Persian Gulf.
—"Iran: Navy 'Successfully' Tests Surface to Air Missile," Vision of the Islamic Republic of Iran Network 1 (Tehran), 1 March 2000; in FBIS Document IAP20000301000087, 1 March 2000; "Iran: Air to Surface Missile Tested During Exercises," IRNA (Tehran), 2 March 2000; in FBIS Document IAP20000302000026, 2 March 2000.

1 March 2000
The Iranian Navy declares the successful test of a surface-to-air missile dubbed "Standard," partially manufactured by Iranian specialists. The missile is fired during the Vahadat-78 military exercises. Rear Admiral Abdollah Manavi, spokesman for these military exercises, says that building the missile took four years and saved Iran millions of dollars.
—"Iran declares having 'successfully' tested a surface-to-air missile in the Gulf," IRNA, 1 March 2000, in Agence France Presse, 1 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>. [CNS translation]

2 March 2000
According to spokesman of the exercise Rear Admiral Abdullah Manavi, the air-to-sea Fajr missile is test-fired on a hypothetical enemy during the third phase of the Vahdat-78 (Unity-78) war games in Persian Gulf waters.
—"Fajr Air-to-Sea Missiles Testfired in Vahdat 78 War Games," IRNA (Tehran), 2 March 2000, <http://www.irna.com>; Doug Richardson, "Iran: Upgraded Standard Test-fired," Jane's Defence Upgrades, 16 April 2000, <http://www.janesonline.com>.

6 March 2000
According to a report by the German Federal Intelligence Service (BND), Iran has imported a substantial amount of arms in recent years despite financial difficulties. Iran is striving to acquire high-quality weapons systems, especially for land and sea. The report states that China and Russia are cooperating with Iran on its nuclear program. It also notes that Iran is trying to buy a research reactor that is suitable for producing plutonium. Iran would like to produce longer-range delivery vehicles itself, and North Korea is said to be helping with this effort. Iran is also preparing to build a longer-range cruise missile for targets at sea and for developing drones. According to the BND, Iran procures arms through the importer Bonyad- Mostafaza-Ve-Janzeban Foundation, which makes legal purchases for Iran, but also maintains dummy firms abroad. The report also states that Iran uses dealers in Dubai for procuring technology.
—Helmut Lolh, "Iran's massive armament efforts despite financial difficulties," Frankfurter Rundschau, 6 March 2000, <http://www.fr-aktuell.de>.

7 March 2000
According to Japanese police, Ichiro Takahashi has been indicted for illegally exporting weapons parts to an Iranian state-run company. Takahashi allegedly tried to buy Chinese C801 and C802 anti-ship missiles at the request of Masoud Momtahahn, an Iranian businessman. Takahashi and another individual were indicted last month for selling anti-tank rocket sighting devices through the Japanese company, Sunbeam, without government permission.
—"Japanese Tried to Help Iranian Buy PRC Missiles," Kyodo (Tokyo), 7 March 2000; in FBIS Document JPP2000030700061, 7 March 2000.

7 March 2000
According to Japanese police, Masoud Momtahan, an Iranian national, tried to obtain Chinese-made C801 and C802 anti-ship missiles from the now defunct Sunbeam K.K. trading house in 1995. The deal would have made 100 missiles available for $140 million through a Hong Kong weapons dealer. The deal did not succeed, though, because Iran decided to import completely disassembled missiles along with technical experts. Police suspect that Ichiro Takahashi, the former president of Sunbeam, also exported gyroscopes to Iran illegally from 1987 to 1992. Takahashi and another Japanese person were indicted last month on charges of exporting 3,100 dials for sighting devices used in anti-tank rocket launchers to Iran Electronics Industries, an Iranian state-run company, in April and December 1995 without government permission.
—"Japanese Tried To Help Iranian Buy PRC Missiles," Kyodo (Tokyo), 7 March 2000; in FBIS Document JPP20000307000061, 7 March 2000; "Article on Illegal Arms Exports to Iran From Japan," Sankei Shimbun (Tokyo), 14 March 2000; in FBIS Document JPP20000314000036, 14 March 2000.

7 March 2000
A whole section of a report by the German intelligence (BND) on the worldwide proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and missiles is devoted to Iran's armament efforts. Aside from the fact that Iran seems to be heading in the direction of building its own nuclear weapons program, Iran is making its own Shahab-1, -2, and -3, all with a range of more than 200km. Iran is also working on a Shahab-4, which, according to the BND, has a range of 2,000km and could be produced as of the year 2005.
—"Tehran is Working on Development of Missiles and Nuclear Weapons; German Intelligence Worried About Armament," Die Welt (Berlin), 7 March 2000, <http://www.diewelt.de>. [CNS translation]

14 March 2000
Two former executives of the now defunct Japanese optical equipment manufacturing and distributing firm, Sunbeam, have been indicted at the Tokyo District Court for allegedly exporting sensitive items. The two are charged with exporting sighting devices for anti-tank missiles, gyroscopes for internal navigation of missiles, and infrared devices for night-imaging capabilities to Iran over a five-year period. Further, an Iranian national who had lived in Japan alleges that one of the executives arranged for the purchase and shipment of one hundred Chinese-made C801 and C802 anti-ship missiles to Iran. The deal would have been worth approximately $140 million. However, the deal was not concluded, and it is suspected that the Sunbeam executive was used by Iran to determine missile prices.
—"Article on Illegal Arms Exports to Iran from Japan," Sankei Shimbun (Tokyo), 14 March 2000; in FBIS Document JPP20000314000036, 14 March 2000; "Japanese Tried to Help Iranian Buy Chinese Missiles," Kyodo (Tokyo), 7 March 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

14 March 2000
General Director and Designer of NPO Energomash, Boris Katorgin, states that Energomash has no contacts with Iran in the sphere of missile and space technologies. According to Katorgin, a U.S. delegation, including representatives of the Department of State, NASA, and the CIA, inspected the facility a number of times and found no evidence of such contacts. In 1997-1998, Energomash was known to be building a mobile fire-extinguishing unit in Iran. However, due to the importance of its agreement with the U.S. company Lockheed Martin regarding the export of RD-180 rocket engines for Atlas-3 launch vehicles, Energomash breached its contract with Iran and consequently suffered significant losses.
—"Energomash denies contacts with Iran in the sphere of space technology," Interfax, 14 March 2000; "Moscow doubts that Washington will impose sanctions on Russia in connection with alleged Exports of missile technologies to Iran," Interfax, 25 February 2000.

15 March 2000
According to Kaywan Khosravi, spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics, the U.S. delivery of anti-ballistic missiles to Israel will increase tension in the Middle East region. Khosravi states that such missile deliveries to Israel pose new threats to the region. He also says that the United States is engaged in an effort to impose restrictions on the legitimate defense needs of other countries in the region. Khosravi believes that Israel plays a destructive role in Middle East regional peace and security. He states that "the strengthening of Israel's military might lead to new security formations in the region." In addition, he says, "delivery of new missiles to Israel, on the pretext of imaginary threats, only reveals Washington's destructive role in peace and security in the region."
—"US delivery of missiles to Israel will increase tension in region," IRNA (Tehran), 15 March 2000, <http://www.irna.com>.

15 March 2000
Russian Vice Prime Minister Ilya Klebanov says Russia is not violating any agreements with the United States on exporting military equipment to Iran. "Everything we supply to Iran has been agreed upon within the framework of the protocol signed by Russia and the US," he says. Klebanov describes as discriminatory the U.S. law that sanctions companies helping Iran create missiles or nuclear weapons.
—"Russia: Supplies to Iran 'Do Not Violate' US Agreements," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 15 March 2000; in FBIS Document CEP20000315000189, 15 March 2000.

21 March 2000
CIA Director George Tenet testifies about threats to U.S. national security, saying that the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction is "of particular concern." He notes the increased proliferation of missiles in India, Pakistan, North Korea, and Iran, and says that information about missiles as well as chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons was becoming more common. He also states that proliferation by non-state actors, such as Osama bin Ladin, is a concern, and that terrorists have exhibited interest in chemical and biological weapons. He cites Russia, China, and North Korea as sources of materials and information related to WMD and missile proliferation, and that states such as Iraq and Syria could become suppliers in the future. He also discusses the political situations in China, India-Pakistan, Russia, Iran, Iraq, the Balkans, North Korea, and Colombia.
—"Statement by Director of Central Intelligence George Tenet Before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee," Central Intelligence Agency, 21 March 2000, <http://www.odci.gov>.

21 March 2000
CIA Director George Tenet addresses the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and says, "US cities will face ballistic missile threats from a wider variety of countries—North Korea, probably Iran, possibly Iraq—over the next 15 years." He charges that proliferation of mid-range ballistic missiles by North Korean missile sales upsets the strategic balance. Tenet says, "The US is more vulnerable than ever to surprise."
—"US Loudmouthed Missile Threat From North Korea," Korea Central News Agency (KCNA), 24 March 2000, <http://www.kcna.co.jp>.

22 March 2000
Israeli defense officials and the United States agree that Iran has achieved the capability to deploy the Shahab-3 ballistic missile and is now focusing on limited emergency deployment of the missile. According to Jane's Defence Weekly, Iranian sources report that the Shahab-3 has only an inertial navigation system (INS), with a circular error probability (CEP) of approximately 3km.
—Steve Rodan, "Iran now able to deploy Shahab-3," Jane's Defence Weekly, 22 March 2000, p. 15.

24 March 2000
According to U.S. intelligence officials, the CIA and the U.S. intelligence community are taking a new approach to assessing missile development programs of rogue countries such as Iran. In this new approach, the CIA considers the first successful flight-test of a missile as a demonstration of near-term deployment. According to John Holum, senior advisor for arms control and international security at the U.S. State Department, ballistic missiles do not have to be deployed in huge numbers nor be very precise and reliable for coercive purposes. Holum also says "there is no need for robust test programs, or for deployment of large numbers of missiles in dedicated long-term deployment sites. That, combined with uncertainties in assessing the threat, means our warning times have sharply diminished." Holum states that the first successful launch of a ballistic missile could happen with only a few months warning.
—"CIA Changes View of Rogues Missile Programs," Middle East Newsline, 24 March 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

25 March 2000
According to knowledgeable sources, Iran will not give up its efforts to develop long-range missiles capable of carrying nuclear and chemical warheads, despite the victory of reformists in the recent Iranian parliamentary elections.
—"Iran Will Not Abandon Developing Its Long-Range Missiles," Al-Quds (London), 25 March 2000, <http://www.alquds.com>.

28 March 2000
Egypt is importing engines for missiles without any U.S. interference, and government sources warn that Washington may be the next exporter of the systems. Furthermore, the sources say that Washington may make it easier for Egypt and other nations to export components banned by the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), adding that Egypt and Pakistan are among U.S. allies in the Middle East and South Asia that are importing missile engines for their ballistic missile programs (the biggest supplier of rocket engines is North Korea).
Earlier this month, a CIA report pointed to cooperation in missile technology between Egypt and North Korea. Gary Milhollin, director of the Wisconsin Project on Nuclear Arms Control, reports that Egypt, Syria, Iran, and Pakistan are importing these rocket motors easily and in sufficient quantities. Milhollin testifies in front of the Senate Armed Services Committee against a bill that would liberalize U.S. exports of numerous types of dual-use equipment. He says that the Export Administration Act would lift restrictions on the export of rocket motors. Milhollin adds that the bill would decontrol dual-use equipment used in the development of nuclear weapons and long-range missiles. This includes the release for export of nuclear weapons triggers, and glass and carbon fibers used in ballistic and cruise missiles.
—"Egypt, Iran import engines for missiles," Middle East Newsline, 28 March 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

31 March 2000
According to Stephen R. Sestanovich, ambassador-at-large and special advisor to the Secretary of State on the Newly Independent States (NIS), the United States must face the reality of the potential emergence of long-range ballistic missile capabilities in countries such as Iran and North Korea.
—"State Dept. Focuses on Russian Transfer of Technology," Aerospace Daily, 31 March 2000.

April 2000
Iran releases additional information on the Fajr-3 and Fajr-5 series of unguided surface-to-surface rocket systems, now in service with Iranian armed forces. Both systems have been developed by the Shahid Bagheri Industries Organization, possibly with technical assistance from North Korea.
—Christopher F. Foss, "Iran reveals more details of Fadjr rocket system," Jane's Defence Weekly, 26 April 2000, p. 16.

April 2000
Russian Deputy Minister Alexander Kondakov says the Baltiyskiy (Baltic State) Technological University in St. Petersburg will no longer teach Iranian students, in light of U.S. allegations that the Iranian students would be learning missile-related technologies. "The educational plans and programs proposed to Iranians are open to general use, but under certain circumstances they can be applied to the preparation of missile experts," Kondakov says. "Considering the importance of the nonproliferation of missile technologies, we suggested that the university stop training Iranian specialists," he says. The decision affects 17 Iranian students who were to start studying at the university in September 2000. University rector Yuriy Savelyev says the postgraduate students are writing theses in the field of applied mechanics and automation of control systems, which have nothing to do with "dual-purpose" technologies. The rector also says that the university was to obtain $2.5 million per year for the eight-year education program.
—"Russia Stops Teaching Iranians at Technology University," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 4 April 2000; in FBIS Document CEP20000404000268, 4 April 2000; "Russia: Iranian Postgraduate Students Banned From Studies," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 11 April 2000; in FBIS Document CEP20000411000298, 11 April 2000.

April 2000
Iran completes development of its Shahab-3 surface-to-surface missile, according to a senior Israeli defense official. Israeli and U.S. intelligence sources agree that Iran is capable of deploying the 1,300km-range missile. The Shahab-3 has a North Korean engine, one of a shipment of engines from Pyongyang in November 1999. The 20 February 2000 test-launch at Mashhad was a demonstration of the integration of the engine and missile subsystems, according to an Israeli defense source. That launch was supervised by the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, Major General Yahya Rahim Safavi. A U.S. intelligence source says it is not likely that Iran is setting up a production line of the missile, and as yet the Shahab-3 does not have a sophisticated nor unconventional warhead. In December 1999, the U.S. military commander in the Persian Gulf, General Anthony Zinni, said the Shahab-3 will eventually have a non-conventional warhead.
—Steve Rodan, "Iran Completes Shihab-3 Development," Middle East Newsline (Jerusalem), 4 April 2000; in "Shihab-3 Minus Lethal Warhead Viewed by Israeli Officials," FBIS Document GMP20000404000166, 4 April 2000.

April 2000
The latest CIA report says Russian companies and scientific institutions continue to assist Iran's missile programs, despite agreements not to. The report says the "Russians have failed to carry out their promise not to supply missile technologies to Iran and right now remain the main suppliers of equipment, materials, and technologies associated with weapons of mass destruction." The Russian Foreign Ministry denies the accusations, and says the United States has not provided any proof of Russian involvement. Furthermore, London's the Times reported in April 2000 that illegal shipment of missile components was being conducted from Astrakhan, Russia to Bandar-e-Anzali, Iran via the Caspian Sea. During recent Congressional hearings, a spokesman for the CIA said Iran would be able to test a ballistic missile capable of reaching the United States by 2010. Other U.S. officials say the transfer of Russian technology could shorten this time span.
—"Izvestiya Reports CIA Allegations of Russian Aid for Iran's Missile Programs," Izvestiya (Moscow), 11 August 2000; in FBIS Document CEP20000811000112, 11 August 2000.

4 April 2000
The United States stated previously that Iranians are being trained in missile-related fields at the Russian Baltic State Technological University. After an inspection into the matter, the Russian Education Ministry decides not to have Iranian students come to study, as the materials one can learn at that university can foster the proliferation of missile technology.
—"Russia Says Iranians Not to be Trained In Missile-Related Technologies," British Broadcasting Corporation, 5 April 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 April 2000
According to London's Foreign Report, an Iranian ship carrying ballistic missile components arrived in Libya in mid-February 2000 as part of a large arms deal between Iran and Libya. The as-yet-unconfirmed report from Middle East sources says the ship left Iran in early January and avoided Africa by sailing through the Straits of Gibraltar. The report says an additional supply of equipment is due to leave for Libya on an Iranian transport plane in a few days. The shipment includes pumps, machines, and spare parts for a liquid-fuel plant designed and supervised by Iranian missile experts. The report alleges that Libyan personnel are learning missile technology in Iran. The deal is said to be an agreement between Iranian spiritual leader Ayatollah Khamenei and Libyan President Muamar Qaddhafi to settle a portion of Libya's debts to Iran. The deal was likely reached in February 1999 when Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharazi met with Qaddhafi in Libya. The report says that officials from the armed forces and defense industries in both countries have regular working meetings and cooperation on technological assistance, training courses and procurements in the field of ballistic missiles. An unconfirmed report says a Libyan delegation witnessed three launches in Iran in July 1998 and three engine static-tests in 1999.
—"London report: Iranian Ballistic Missiles to Libya?," Foreign Report (London), 11 April 2000; in FBIS Document GMP20000411000182, 11 April 2000.

14 April 2000
U.S. State Department spokesman James Rubin states that the United States is imposing sanctions on one North Korean company and the Iranian Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics, the Aerospace Industries Organization, the Shahid Hemat Industrial Group, and the Sonam Industrial Group. According to him, these organizations have made "Category I" violations of the Missile Technology Control Regime, which include the transfer of "complete missile systems, major sub-systems, rocket stages or guidance systems, production facilities or technology associated with medium-range missiles."
—"U.S. Penalizes North Korean, Iranian Firms for Missile Sales," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 14 April 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

16 April 2000
The Iranian Brigadier-General Fasihi says that the Islamic Republic of Iran Military was able to produce a "Standard" missile and surface-to-surface laser missiles and other artillery through 26 research projects over the course of the last year.
—"Iran: Senior Officer Comments on Armed Forces' Achievements," British Broadcasting Corporation, 16 April 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

16 April 2000
Mr. Hamid Reza Asefi, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman, states that Iran's missiles are only for defensive and deterrent purposes. He also states that all of Iran's technology that serves its national interests comes from domestic sources.
—"Foreign Ministry Spokesman Says US Sanction 'inappropriate'," British Broadcasting Corporation, 18 April 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

24 April 2000
Russia's Education Ministry has suspended the rector of Baltic State Technical University, Yuri Savelyev, over allegations that the school leaked ballistic missile technology to Iranian students there. Education Minister Vladimir Filippov issued an edict on 16 February to suspend Savelyev. Voyenmeks University, based in St. Petersburg, has won two deals with Tehran Technological University to train the latter's students. Education Ministry Spokesman Yuri Semyonov confirmed on 3 April that Filippov ordered Savelyev to be "temporarily relieved of his duties," but did not elaborate, saying the edict is classified.
—Simon Saradzhyan, "Russia Alleges University Gave Iran Rocket Technology," Defense News, 24 April 2000.

25 April 2000
The United States decides to lift sanctions on the Russian organizations INOR, a research center, and Polyus, a scientific and production organization. The sanctions had been placed on them for suspected missile technology cooperation with Iran. The organizations no longer deal with Iran, so the sanctions can be lifted.
—"Itar-Tass Foreign News Digest of Tuesday, April 25," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 25 April 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

25 April 2000
According to U.S. State Department Spokesman James Rubin, sanctions were imposed on the Baltic State Technical University after an investigation by the Russian Ministry of Education revealed that the rector, Yuri Savelyev, was involved in the transfer of sensitive technology to Iran. Rubin says that the United States is imposing a ban on government assistance to and procurement from Savelyev. In addition, any U.S. exports or imports involving Savelyev are banned.
—"Sanctions Imposed Against Russia," Washington Times, 25 April 2000, p. 11.

28 April 2000
Scientists and lawyers say that the U.S.-planned missile defense against attack by North Korea would provoke China into greatly increasing its nuclear arsenal. Stephen Schwartz, publisher of the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, says in a telephone interview, "China has a very circumscribed arsenal with only 400 warheads and two dozen long-range missiles." China believes it needs a credible nuclear deterrent to protect itself from attack. Schwartz says, "if the US deploys a defense shield, they will do what we would do in the circumstances, which is to build enough missiles to make sure that some could get through." According to U.S. experts, the missile shield is needed to protect U.S. territory against attack by "rogue states" such as North Korea and Iran. Jack Mandelsohn, vice president and director of Lawyers Alliance for World Security (LAWS), says in a telephone interview that at present there are no North Korean missiles aimed at the United States. He states, "if we put a defense system in Alaska, no matter what we say, the Chinese will think it is meant for them." He adds that China has about 20 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of hitting the United States; "with 100 interceptors, that means we get five shots. It is conceivable we could shoot down all their missiles, so China will naturally build lots more. What it means is that we will end up with many more nuclear weapons aimed at us than now."
—"Proposed US Missile Shield Would Provoke China, Lawyers Say," Yahoo Asia News, 29 April 2000, <http://asia.dailynews.yahoo.com>.

17 May 2000
Acting Commander of the Iranian Air Force, Brigadier General Iraj Osareh, reports that Iran's air-to-air, air-to-surface, and surface-to-air missiles are all being built in the country with the most sophisticated technology.
—"Commander: Iran's Air Force Well Equipped," IRNA (Tehran), 17 May 2000; in FBIS Document IAP20000517000029, 17 May 2000.

19 May 2000
Heydar Karrar, the second phase of military exercises with the use of missiles and anti-aircraft batteries, has begun in the Ramsheh General Area in Esfahan Province.
—"Iran: Second Phase of Heydar Karrar Military Exercises Begins," British Broadcasting Corporation, 19 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

19 May 2000
According to a U.S. intelligence official, the U.S. intelligence community is writing a secret report warning the Clinton administration that construction of a national missile defense (NMD) system could result in a sharp buildup of strategic and medium-range nuclear missiles by China, India, and Pakistan, and further spread missile technology in the Middle East. John Peters, an arms control specialist at Rand Corporation, however, rules out the possibility of India getting into an arms race with China. An intelligence official further says that the CIA-led analysis and updated threat-assessment are the first official evaluations of how the NMD system could generate new threats. CIA analysts believe Russia would accept the U.S. arguments that Russian deterrence will remain preserved despite deployment of NMD, but China, with an arsenal of only 20 strategic intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs; CSS-4), is unlikely to be persuaded. As a result, China is likely to take measures, such as the installation of multiple nuclear warheads on its missiles, the building of mobile launchers for its DF-31 missiles, and the addition of missile countermeasures such as booster fragmentation, low-power jammers, chaff, and simple decoys. Furthermore, intelligence officials believe that Russia and China would sell missile countermeasures to countries like North Korea, Iran, Iraq, and Syria. Michael O'Hanlin, who tracks the missile defense issue at the Brookings Institution in Washington, argues that the potential willingness of China to sell missile countermeasures to countries like North Korea is a bigger threat to the United States than an enhanced nuclear buildup by China.

An intelligence official further states that U.S. allies in Europe and NATO could be angered if the United States is seen to be walling itself off from its allies with an anti-missile shield. An updated threat-assessment as a supplement to the secret report notes that although North Korea has frozen its program to test its Taepodong-2 ICBM since the U.S. administration proposed relaxing economic and diplomatic sanctions in September 2000, the missile could be tested on short notice. In addition, the CIA officials who warned that Iran may test an ICBM by 2010 have not seen further progress in Iran's missile program. Critics of NMD argue that the missile threat from North Korea and Iran is exaggerated, and that the anti-missile technology is unproven. Critics also say NMD deployment would undermine crucial arms control and nonproliferation regimes.
—Bob Drogin and Tyler Marshall, "Missile Shield Analysis Warns of Arms Buildup; Defense: US System could Lead Other Nuclear Powers to Enhance Arsenals, Spread Technology, Report Says," Los Angeles Times, 19 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 May 2000
As part of their military maneuvers, Iran's Army and the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps begin a missile war in the Gulf of Oman that should last a week.
—"Iranian Army, IRGC Start Military Manoeuvres," Xinhua News Agency, 21 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 May 2000
In a report by IRNA, Brigadier General Iraj Osareh, Iranian acting Commander of the Air Force, states that all of Iran's air-to-air, air-to-surface, and surface-to-air missiles are produced in Iran using the newest in modern technology.
—"Airforce Commander Discusses the Strengths of the Irani Airforce," IPR Strategic Business Information Database, 21 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 May 2000
Iranian TV states that the missiles to be used in the military exercises in the Gulf are called Saeqeh (Lightning).
—"Iran Begins Three Joint Exercises in Gulf Region," British Broadcasting Corporation, 21 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 May 2000
The Iranian Navy starts the Saeqeh (Lightning) exercise involving missiles and missile boats. The maneuvers are part of the Val-Adiyat and Misaq ba Velayat joint exercises between its Army, Navy, and Air Force in Khorramshahr, the Persian Gulf, and the Oman Sea.
—"Iran TV Reports on Joint Exercise in Persian Gulf Region," Vision of the Islamic Republic of Iran Network 1 (Tehran), 21 May 2000; in FBIS Document IAP20000521000037, 21 May 2000.

21 May 2000
The Army, Navy, and Air Force of the Islamic Republic of Iran Military (IRIM) start its joint military exercises in Khorramshahr, the Persian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman. One of the exercises with the navies of the IRIM and the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps using Saeqeh (Lightning) missiles on missile boats and ships commences today as well.
—"Iran Begins Three Joint Exercises in Gulf Region," British Broadcasting Corporation, 23 May 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

24 May 2000
The Iranian Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics implements a project for the "assembly line for mass production of advanced air defense missiles, Shehab-e Saqeb."
—"Iranian Defense Ministry Inaugurates Industrial Projects," Vision of the Islamic Republic of Iran Network 1 (Tehran), 24 May 2000; in FBIS Document IAP20000524000109, 24 May 2000.

24 May 2000
At the time of President Khatami's visit to Khorramshahr, the Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces inaugurates 10 industrial, defense, and production projects. Among them is an "assembly line for mass production of advance air defence missiles, Shehab-e Saqeb."
—"Defence Ministry Projects Inaugurated," British Broadcasting Corporation, 3 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

24 May 2000
According to Brigadier General Ashtiyani, Iran successfully executes its Bayt al-Maqdis 12 and Val-Adiyat exercises. He says the military is "able to successfully launch a well-coordinated massive ground and air attack utilizing missiles, artillery fire, Cobra helicopters, and air force bombers."
—"Military Commander Interviewed on Maneuvers," Vision of the Islamic Republic of Iran Radio 1 (Tehran), 24 May 2000; in FBIS Document IAP20000524000038, 24 May 2000.

26 May 2000
President Bill Clinton plans to discuss Russian transfer of missile and nuclear weapons technology to Iran with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on 3 June. White House National Security Adviser Samuel Berger also expects discussions regarding missile and nuclear proliferation, and cooperation to prevent leakage of Russian technology, to resume. Berger states that Russian nuclear and missile technology has been obtained by Iran. Berger says that some progress has been made in preventing future information leaks from occurring but indicates that the problem persists. According to U.S. officials, the biggest remaining problem is Russian aid to Iran's nuclear weapons program. However, Berger recognizes the initiatives that Russia has begun in their efforts to tighten control over the proliferation of strategic weapons.
—"US Places Russian Tech Transfer to Iran on Summit Agenda," Middle East Newsline, 26 May 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

26 May 2000
At a scheduled 3 June summit in Moscow, President Bill Clinton plans to discuss Russian transfer of missile and nuclear weapons technology to Iran with president Vladimir Putin. White House National Security Adviser Samuel Berger states, "we expect to continue our discussions about missile and nuclear proliferation, and cooperation to prevent leakage of Russian technology to countries like Iran."
—"U.S. places Russian tech transfer to Iran on summit agenda," Middle East Newsline, 26 May 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

29 May 2000
North Korea begins supplying Syria with the new, longer-range Scud ballistic missile. North Korea is in negotiations with Egypt to sell the same weapon. The longer-range Scud-D has an approximate range of 700km. The additional range of the Scud-D allows Syria to deploy the missiles deep in its territory while keeping Israel within range. It is also believed that the Scud-D has been sold to Libya, whose interest in acquiring and developing missiles has been renewed. Syria already possesses the Scud-C, which has an approximate range of 500km, and has begun to assemble its own Scud-C missiles in a local plant that was designed by the North Koreans. Syria is able to produce some of its own parts for the Scuds but must still purchase other parts for the Scud-C missiles from other countries. Some believe that Syria is producing Scud parts and selling them to Egypt. Syria also possesses chemical warheads for its missiles. Experts estimate that Syria has more than 300 missiles, Scud-Bs and -Cs, and 26 launchers. Syria is cooperating closely with Iran, which is providing Syria with rocket fuels.
China is also involved in helping both Iran and Syria to develop advanced surface-to-surface ballistic missiles. China is assisting Syria in creating missile engines and guidance systems and in developing rocket fuels. China has also reportedly built a range for ballistic missiles in Iran and a supersonic wind tunnel for Libya to test missiles.
—Zeev Schiff, "Syria adds new long-range Scud to arsenal," Haaretz, 29 May 2000, <http://www3.haaretz.co.il>; Ross Dunn, "Syria gets new scud," BBC News, 30 May 2000, <http://www.news.bbc.co.uk>; "Beijing helping Syria with missiles," Times, 5 June 2000, <http://www.the-Times.com>; "Syria acquires 700 kilometer range Scud Missile," 29 May 2000, <http://www.israelwire.com>.

June 2000
U.S. experts say that despite repeated appeals, North Korea has also continued to sell intermediate- and long-range missiles such as the Nodong and Taepodong-1 (Paektusan-1) to Iran, Syria, and Libya. Sources say that mainly commercial contacts are used to hide the weapons transactions.
—"Iraq, N. Korea Believed Cooperating on Missiles, WMD," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 2, No. 218, 8 June 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

2 June 2000
CNN reports that Iran is ready to test a medium-range ballistic missile able to strike Israel, Turkey, and parts of Russia. Marine General Tony Zinni, Commander of U.S. forces in the Persian Gulf, expects the test to be a success. According to Zinni, this would be very important because it would mean that Iran would have a missile with a range of 800 miles. Zinni's assessment is that it is only a matter of years before Iran has weapons of mass destruction and the means to deliver them.
—Jeanne Merseve and Jamie McIntyre, "Marine General says Iran Ready to Test medium-Range ballistic Missile," CNN Worldview, Live Report, 2 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

4 June 2000
Israeli sources confirm that China has supplied advanced ballistic missile technologies to Iran and Syria. The sources say that while China has not sold complete missile systems, it has sold materials for the production of solid rocket fuels, has helped set up a factory for the production of rocket engines, and has transferred missile guidance technologies to Iran and Syria. The guidance technology is designed for use in both long-range and short-range ballistic missiles. Israel has asked China to stop its transfer of missile technologies several times in the past. At present, however, the United States is arguing that Israel is not doing enough to pressure China because Israel has its own military dealings with China. However, Israeli sources report that Israel was successful in stopping the transfer of Chinese M-9 ballistic missiles to Syria in the past. China has so far committed itself not to help Iran or any other countries develop nuclear weapons.
—Zeev Schiff, "China Helping Iran and Syria Develop Long-Range Missiles," Haaretz (Tel Aviv), 4 June 2000; in "China Aids Iran, Syrian 'Advanced' Ballistic Missile Projects, Israeli Sources Confirm," FBIS Document GMP20000604000081, 4 June 2000.

4 June 2000
According to an unnamed U.S. source, China is assisting Iran and Syria in the development of advanced surface-to-surface ballistic missiles. China is also selling Iran materials for the development of solid rocket fuels and for setting up a plant to manufacture the NP-110 missile engine. China has already constructed a fully equipped missile range with telemetry equipment for long-range ballistic missiles in Iran. China is transferring missile-guidance technologies, including satellite sensors, which are applicable to both long-range ballistic missiles and short-range Scud missiles, to Iran. China is setting up a similar missile engine plant in Syria. According to unnamed Israeli sources, Israel has protested to China repeatedly about their sales of advanced ballistic missile technology to Arab states.
—"China aids Syria and Iran in long-range missile development" Middle East Newsline, 4 June 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

5 June 2000
U.S. military officials provide Israel with the information that China is helping Syria and Iran develop surface-to-surface missiles and in making missile engines and guidance systems that are meant for the long-range ballistic missiles and the Scud missiles. Supposedly China has also built a test range in Iran for ballistic missiles.
—"China Helping Iran, Syria Build Missiles, U.S. Warns Israel: Barak Tightly Guarded After Extremist Threats," Ottawa Citizen, 5 June 2000, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

5 June 2000
The United States is concerned about reports of China's involvement in helping Iran and Syria develop sophisticated missile capabilities. U.S. State Department Spokesperson Philip Reeker expresses concern over Chinese firms selling missile-related technology to Iran. Reeker also mentions the significance of reports that Syria may be seeking assistance from China for its missile program. According to the Times of London, the United States provides Israel with information about China's sale of missile-guidance technology to both Iran and Syria.
—"US concerned about Chinese arms sales to Iran and Syria," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 5 June 2000;via Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 June 2000
The U.S. State Department spokesman states, "We have said many times before and are continuing to say that we have long-standing concerns about Chinese firms selling missile-related technology to Iran, and we have made these concerns known to the Chinese government. We also take seriously reports that Syria may be seeking from China materials for its missile program." This is the first time a U.S. official publicly acknowledges Chinese help to the Syrian missile program. In the past, North Korea was cited as an exporter of missiles components and systems to Syria.
U.S. and Israeli officials agree that China continues to supply missile components to both Iran and Syria for development of medium-range missiles including the Scud-D missile, which can be tipped with a non-conventional warhead. Reeker says that there is no relation between the U.S. concern over Chinese sale of missiles and the Israeli sale of Phalcon aircraft to China.
—"U.S. Concerned Over Chinese Missile Sales to Syria," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 2, No. 216, 7 June 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

8 June 2000
U.S. intelligence officials, quoting a National Security Agency (NSA) report of 8 June 2000, say that Russia and Uzbekistan are cooperating on the sale of missile parts to North Korea. The parts being sold include a special aluminum alloy, laser gyroscopes used in missile guidance, and connectors and relays used in missile electronics, the officials say. The report also says that Russia has been collaborating with a North Korean missile company in sending missile components to Yemen. According to officials, the gyroscopes for the North Korean Scud missiles were first sold to North Korea's Changgwang Sinyong Company in Kazakhstan and then resold to Yemen. The United States has placed an export ban on the firm since April 2000 for selling Scud missiles to Iran.
—Bill Gertz, "Russia Sells Missile Technology to North Korea," Washington Times, 30 June 2000, p. A1.

8 June 2000
Western Intelligence sources say North Korea is helping Iraq in its medium-range missile and nuclear weapons programs. Sources say Iraq is trying to acquire its pre-1991 strategic weapons capability by increasing its oil revenue through enhanced exports. Former UN chief arms inspector Richard Butler says that Iraqi weaponization would continue to pose a threat to the United States and Israel. U.S. experts say that despite repeated appeals, North Korea also continues to sell intermediate- and long-range missiles such as the Nodong and Taepodong-1 to Iran, Syria, and Libya. Sources say that mainly commercial contacts are used to hide the weapons transactions.
—"North Korea Sells Long-Range Ballistic Missile to Syria and Libya," Middle East Newsline, 29 May 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>; "Iraq, N. Korea Believed Cooperating on Missiles, WMD," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 2, No. 218, 8 June 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>; "N. Korea is Selling Missiles to Arab Countries," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 2, No. 218, 8 June 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

13 June 2000
Yugoslavia has expressed its willingness to sell Iraq any military systems it requests, including missile components. Yugoslav Prime Minister Momir Bulatovic says that Belgrade will not rule out any sales to Iraq. Yugoslav officials say that the two countries have been brought closer together by the experience of international sanctions. Western intelligence sources suspect that Baghdad has looked to Belgrade for help with non-conventional weapons and missiles. Belgrade is also courting Iran.
—Steve Rodan, "Belgrade Ready to Sell all to Iraq," Middle East Newsline, 13 June 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

15 June 2000
U.S. officials are alleging that North Korea has rejected U.S. appeals and is selling virtually all of its long-range and medium-range ballistic missile components to Middle Eastern clients such as Iran, Syria, and Libya. These components include parts of the Nodong ballistic missile with a range of approximately 1000km and the Taepodong ballistic missile with a range of about 1500km. The Nodong has already served as the foundation for the Iranian Shahab-3 ballistic missile.
—"North Korea is selling Missiles to Arab Countries," Middle East Newsline, 15 June 2000, <http://www.menewsline.com>.

18 June 2000
Israeli defense sources reveal that Israel has secretly test-fired cruise missiles involving two German-built Dolphin-class submarines capable of carrying nuclear warheads last month off the coast of Sri Lanka. The Israeli-made missiles, equipped with conventional warheads, hit targets at sea at a range of approximately 1,500km. They are designed to simulate swift retaliation against a pre-emptive nuclear attack from Iran. However, the Israeli Navy dismissed the report and denied the tests reported in a statement by the IDF Spokesperson. Israel paid a cut rate of £200 million for the submarines to compensate for Iraq's use of German-made non-conventional weapons against Israel during the Gulf War. A third submarine is expected to be operational within weeks. Israel plans to equip each of the three undetectable submarines with four cruise missiles. Under a system of rotation, two of the submarines will remain at sea—one in the Red Sea and Persian Gulf, the other in the Mediterranean. The third will remain on standby. The 1,720-ton diesel-electric submarines can remain at sea for as long as 30 days. The missiles could be fired only after approval from four people: prime minister, defense minister, chief of staff of the Israeli Army, and the commander of the Navy. Israel remains concerned about its vulnerability to attack from within the region, especially from Iran. Israeli intelligence believes that