This annotated chronology is based on the data sources that follow each entry. Public sources often provide conflicting information on classified military programs. In some cases we are unable to resolve these discrepancies, in others we have deliberately refrained from doing so to highlight the potential influence of false or misleading information as it appeared over time. In many cases, we are unable to independently verify claims. Hence in reviewing this chronology, readers should take into account the credibility of the sources employed here.

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.

2002
Iran's missile threat stems from its possession of some 300 Scud-Bs (Shahab-1), 100 Scud-Cs (Shahab-2), some 200 Chinese supplied CSS-8 cruise missiles, and a handful of Shahab-3 missiles that could be launched in an emergency. The United States has cited Russia with supplying Iran with SS-4 MRBM technologies which have been used in the derivatives of the North Korean Nodong missiles for the Shahab-3 and -4 missiles. Iran has both publicly acknowledged and denied testing for the Shahab-4 and -5, which they claim is a satellite launch vehicle.
—"Russian assistance to Iran," Carnegie Analysis, 17 July 2002, from Deadly Arsenals: Tracking Weapons of Mass Destruction, Joseph Cirincione, Jon B. Wolfsthal, and Miriam Rajkumar, June 2002.

January 2002
According to U.S. intelligence officials, China sells HQ-7 surface-to-air missiles to Iran. This does not violate Beijing's 1998 pledge to not sell Iran C-801 and C-802 anti-ship cruise missiles. The HQ-7 has a range of eight nautical miles, and is a reverse-engineered version of the French Crotale missile. Its advanced guidance system uses infrared and television tracking.
—Bill Gertz and Rowan Scarborough, "Inside the Ring," 22 February 2002, Washington Times, <http://www.washtimes.com>.

January 2002
Jane's Intelligence Review says that Iran is producing Karus and Tondar cruise missiles, which are local versions of China's YJ-1/-2 (C-801/-802) missiles. China supplied Iran with those missiles in the 1990s.
—Duncan Lennox, "Co-operation boosts missile proliferation," Jane's Intelligence Review, January 2002, p. 41.

3 January 2002
The Israeli military intercepts a ship carrying 50 tons of Iranian weapons, including Strela anti-aircraft missiles, Sagger anti-tank missiles, and Katyusha short-range rockets. According to the Israeli military, the ship, the Karine A, departed from Yemen and arrived at the Iranian island of Qeys on 11 December 2001, where the weapons were loaded under the supervision of Iranian intelligence officers and a representative of Hizbollah. Israeli officials say that the weapons were to be smuggled into the Gaza Strip then to the West Bank.
—Alan Philps, "Israeli commandos capture arms ship bound for Palestinians," Daily Telegram (London), 5 January 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; Eric Silver, "Arafat Was Behind Arms Shipment, Says Sharon," Independent (London), 7 January 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 January 2002
According to an unclassified U.S. National Intelligence Estimate (NIE) prepared by U.S. intelligence agencies for Congress, Iran's missile arsenal "includes some 1300km-range Shahab-3 MRBMs [medium-range ballistic missiles], a few hundred SRBMs [short-range ballistic missiles], and a variety of unguided rockets." The Shahab-3 is Iran's version of North Korea's Nodong missile, and is said to be "in the late stages of development." Most of the intelligence community believes that Iran "is likely to develop space launch vehicles," which could be employed as intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) or IRBMs toward the end of the decade. One of the agencies believes "Iran is unlikely to achieve a successful test of an ICBM before 2015." The NIE cautions that this time frame could be shortened to within one year if Iran acquires "complete systems or major subsystems, such as North Korean TD-2 or Russian engines." Russian, Chinese, and North Korean assistance "will remain crucial to the success of the Iranian missile program," although Russia most likely will not provide Iran with a finished ICBM or space launch vehicle. Regarding possible warheads, the NIE says that Iran has chemical and biological weapons, but "does not yet have a nuclear weapon."
—"Foreign Missile Developments and the Ballistic Missile Threat Through 2015," Unclassified Summary of a National Intelligence Estimate, Director of Central Intelligence, December 2001.

12 January 2002
The New York Times reports that Iran purchased U.S.-built Stinger anti-aircraft missiles and supplied them to the Lebanese-based terrorist organization, Islamic Jihad, but the missiles prove defective.
—James Risen, "Report Says Iran Gave Terrorists U.S. Arms," The New York Times, 12 January 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

13 January 2002
According to U.S., Israeli, and Russian officials, Iran has been unable to perfect an indigenous version of the engine for its Shahab-3 missile. Iran has successfully manufactured some components for the Shahab-3, which is based on North Korea's Nodong missile. Based on official statements and missile tests, Iran is believed to be increasingly focusing on short-range solid-fueled missiles rather than long-range liquid- fueled missiles such as the Shahab. Since signing a 1985 agreement with Tehran, North Korea has provided Iran with complete missile systems, individual missile components, and engines and transporter-launchers for its short-range Shahab-1 and Shahab-2 missiles in return for shipments of crude oil.
—Michael Dobbs, "A Story of Iran's Quest for Power: A Scientist Details The Role of Russia," Washington Post, 13 January 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; Janine Zacharia, "US-Israel Talks to focus on Iran's missile program," The Jerusalem Post, 16 January 2002.

Mid-January 2002
An Iranian Shahab-3 missile explodes while being fueled for a flight-test, killing several people. Israeli and U.S. intelligence sources say that the missile had a liquid-fueled engine from North Korea. The Shahab-3 is said to have a range of 1,300km. Two of the previous three flight-tests failed. The biggest problems with the missile are said to be its engine and navigation systems. [Note: See the following Ha'aretz report on the story; to the best of our knowledge, the event was not mentioned in the Iranian press. See also entries on the previous Shahab-3 tests in July 1998, February 2000, and September 2000.]
—"Iran's Shihab-3 Explodes Before Launch," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4, No. 70, 19 February 2002.

Mid-January 2002
An engine test for Iran's Shahab-3 ballistic missile fails when the North Korean supplied liquid-fueled engine explodes, according to U.S. intelligence sources. Iran does not issue a statement on the accident, which resulted in an unknown number of casualties. It is unclear whether Iran was planning a test-flight of the missile, but Israeli sources say the engine exploded while fuel was being added. The test may have been part of Iran's efforts to indigenously develop a Shahab-3 engine. The Iranian Shahab-3 engine has failed in two previous tests, but a mid-2000 test utilizing a North Korean engine in the Shahab-3 was successful. [Note: See entries on the previous Shahab-3 tests in July 1998, February 2000, and September 2000.] The current failure indicates that Iran's efforts to acquire Russian assistance with the missile engines have not yet been successful. A U.S. analyst said, however, "we can't say for sure whether this harms the Shahab-3 program." Iran also is said to be continuing development of a 2,000km-range Shahab-4 missile, despite assurances to Europe that Shahab-4 would be cancelled.
—"Iran Fails to Develop Shihab-3 Missile Engine," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4, No. 58, 11 February 2002; Ze'ev Schiff, "Iran missile trial fails, casualties reported," Ha'aretz, 10 February 2002, in <http://www.haaretzdaily.com>; Steve Rodan and Duncan Lennox, "Shehab 3 suffers test launch setback," Jane's Defense Weekly, 20 February 2002, p. 16.

15 January 2002
Iran and Nigeria express interest in establishing weapons deals, which could include the sale of missiles. An Iranian official said that Iran has "developed an array of missile systems that have been tested and acknowledged for their strength....We would like to cooperate in this regard with our brother Nigeria." On 6 January, however, former president and head of Iran's Expediency Council Hashemi Rafsanjani said, "Iran does not sell weapons and is not interested in arms sales." Nigeria's Defense Minister Theophilous Danjuma had previously indicated that Nigeria would buy weapons from Iran if the prices were appropriate.
—"Nigeria Possible of Buying Missiles From Iran: Officials," Xinhua News Agency, 15 January 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; "Despite Pledge, Iran Continues to Peddle Missiles," Middle East Newsline, 7 February 2002, Vol. 4, No. 54.

16 January 2002
Israeli officials say that Iran is prepared to provide a variety of missiles and rockets to the Palestinian Authority (PA), as indicated by the recent seizure of a shipment of Iranian weapons destined for the Gaza Strip. [Note: See entry for 3 January 2002.] Israeli Transportation Minister Ephraim Sneh says, "Iran wants to do with the population in the central sector of Israel what it did with northern residents: to build a network of rockets that will cover most of the country's population." A report by the Israeli Foreign Ministry says that this seizure is "the tip of the iceberg" in Iran's efforts to supply weapons to the Palestinians.
—"Israel Orders Intelligence Focus on Iran," Middle East Newsline (Jerusalem), 16 January 2002.

17 January 2002
U.S. and Israeli officials meet in Tel Aviv and hold high-level discussions on Iran's attempts to acquire nuclear technology and advanced conventional weaponry. [Note: See 13 January 2002 entry.]
—Janine Zacharia, "U.S.-Israel talks to focus on Iran’s missile program," The Jerusalem Post, 16 January 2002.

21 January 2002
According to the U.S. Department of Defense, China has not stopped selling missile subsystems and technology to countries in the Middle East, including Iran and Libya. Furthermore, China continues to export missile components and technology to North Korea, which transfers related versions to Iran, Syria, Libya, and Egypt. Deputy Defense Undersecretary Lisa Bronson says, "China continues to be one of [the] world's key sources for missile and WMD-related technology, including to some terrorist sponsoring states." Burns also says that Chinese companies have provided assistance to non-conventional weapons programs in Iran, Iraq, Syria, and North Korea. The U.S. Department of Commerce has listed 19 Chinese organizations believed to be involved in such transfers, including Huawei Technologies, which allegedly has helped Iraq improve its air-defense system.
—"China Continues to Export Missile Tech to Mid-East," Middle East Newsline (Jerusalem), 21 January 2002.

23 January 2002
Iran launches Katyusha rockets at the Mujahadeen Khalq's Romoz camp in Iraq, 360km south of Baghdad. This is believed to be the ninth Iranian rocket attack against the Iraq-based Khalq, the largest rebel group opposed to the Iranian government.
—"Iran Launches Missile Attack on Iraqi Camp," Middle East Newsline (Jerusalem), 25 January 2002.

29 January 2002
In his State of the Union speech, President George W. Bush says that Iran, Iraq, North Korea "and their terrorist allies, constitute an axis of evil, arming to threaten the peace of the world. By seeking weapons of mass destruction, these regimes pose a grave and growing danger."
—George W. Bush, State of the Union Address, Washington, DC, 29 January 2002.

29 January 2002
The World Tribune reports that the U.S. State Department has broken away from the U.S. intelligence community on the assessment of Iran's long-range missile threat in the unclassified version of the National Intelligence Estimate. Most of the disagreement revolves around the definition for ICBM and the deadline by which Iran could accomplish the testing of such vehicle, which the State Department feels could take until 2015.
—"State Department breaks with U.S. intelligence on Iran missile threat," World Tribune, 29 January 2002, <http://www.worldtribune.com>.

30 January 2002
Moscow's National Information Service reports that Iran will probably have a test model of its Shahab-4 missile and a Shahab-5 toward the end of the decade. These two-stage missiles are expected to have a range between 2,000 and 3,500km. Iran currently has in service the Shahab-3, a single-stage, liquid-fueled missile with a maximum range of 1,300km, a maximum 1000kg warhead, and 20-ton launch weight. The Shahab-3 circular error probability (CEP) is approximately 2000 meters. Iran also has Scud and solid-fueled Muvaak-series missiles.
—"North Korean, Iranian, Iraqi Missile Programs Said to Pose No Threat to U.S.," Strana.ru National Information Service (Moscow), 30 January 2002, via FBIS, Document CEP20020131000213.

30 January 2002
In a bi-annual report to Congress, the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) assesses that "entities in Russia, North Korea, and China continued to supply crucial ballistic missile-related equipment, technology, and expertise to Iran" in the first half of 2001. Iran's aims of independently producing ballistic missiles are currently supported by foreign assistance. Iran currently produces Scud short-range ballistic missiles, and has nearly developed the Shahab-3 medium-range ballistic missile, which has been tested three times. Iran had acknowledged development of the Shahab-4 as a more advanced ballistic missile, but later labeled it exclusively as a non-military space launch vehicle. Iran's Defense Minister has also spoken of plans for a Shahab-5, which the CIA concludes, "strongly suggest that Tehran intends to develop a longer-range ballistic missile capability."
—"Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating to Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced Conventional Munitions, 1 January Through 30 June 2001," Released 30 January 2002, in <http://www.cia.gov>.

31 January 2002
Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres says that Iran has provided 10,000 missiles, with ranges between 20 and 70km, to Hizbullah in Lebanon. He also says that Iran possesses or is seeking the Shahab-3 missile, with a range of 1,300km, and a missile with a 5,000km range. Peres claims that Iran is developing a missile with a range of 10,000km, which would be capable of striking North America.
—Nina Gilbert, "Peres: Iran widening its missile threat," Jerusalem Post [Internet Edition], 31 January 2002, in <http://www.jpost.com>.

February 2002
The Al Sharq Al-Awsat paper reports that Iran has decided to scrap its Shahab-4 ballistic missile for the time being. Sighting reports from close to the military circles, the regime decided to put the project on hold after President George W. Bush labeled Iran part of the "axis of evil" in January. Sources from the Shahid Hemmat Complex, where various missiles are produced, as well as other military experts such as Defense Minister Admiral Ali Shamkhani, observed that the production of the Shahab-4 and -5 with ranges of over 4,000km "would not only not enhance the nation's defense, but would endanger national security instead, as the U.S. and European countries would never allow Iran to produce weapons that could reach their countries." Iran is also working on new versions of advanced anti-tank TOW rockets capable of being fired from helicopters and land-based vehicles.
—"Iran to scrap production of Shehab-4 ballistic missiles," Al Sharq Al-Awsat, 24 February 2002, via Iran Press Service, <http://www.iran-press-service.com>.

February 2002
A recent trial of the Iranian Shihab-3 missile failed when the engines exploded, reportedly causing a number of casualties. Experts say the repeated failures in the engines will undoubtedly delay its production—while the Iranians declared the second test launch a success. It later emerged that the Iranians had installed a North Korean engine in the missile, not an Iranian one. North Korean know-how has been instrumental in the development of the Shihab-3. However, recent efforts to harness Russian expertise have failed to yield positive results. Experts suggest it is only a matter of funds and time before a missile can be made ready for production. As a result of these tests, Israel succeeds in convincing the United States of the need for a third deployed battery of Arrow anti-ballistic missiles to counter the Shihab-3, whose range is estimated to be 1,300 kilometers.
Iran is also developing Shihab-4, with an estimated range of 2,000 kilometers.
—Ze'ev Schiff, "Iran missile trial fails, casualties reported," Ha'aretz, 14 February 2002, in <http://www.haaretzdaily.com>.

4 February 2002
Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres says that Iran has provided around 10,000 rockets with ranges between 20 and 70km to Hezbollah in southern Lebanon "so that they can hit the heart of Israel." Peres also says that Iran has sent troops from the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps military units. Israel's Transportation Minister Ephraim Sneh said that Iran believes that "from a religious point of view, Israel has no right to exist. Its Army, the rockets in south Lebanon are all meant for this purpose. This is the regime's ideology and strategy." Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi denied the allegations.
—Peter Hirschberg, "Peres Raises Iranian Threat," Ha'aretz, 5 February 2002, in <http://www.haaretzdaily.com>; "Iran denies Israeli claims it has supplied rockets to Hezbollah," 6 February 2002, in <http://www.haaretzdaily.com>.

5 February 2002
Iranian Defense Minister Admiral Ali Shamkhani says that although Iran does not intend to produce nuclear weapons, it "will focus efforts on developing its missile capabilities, particularly the rocket Shahab-3....We are inclined to raise its accuracy and double its exploding power." The Shahab-3 currently has a 1,300km range. Shamkhani dismissed allegations of Iranian nuclear weapons ambitions, saying that this "would make us a potential threat to others which could be exploited in a dangerous manner in undermining our ties with other states in the region." Shamkhani also refutes President George W. Bush's labeling Iran part of an "axis of evil," and says "we are neither Afghanistan nor Iraq, and Iran will not hesitate to defend its values and principles. Iran will not retreat an inch." In response to suggestions that Israel may attack Iran's nuclear power facilities at Bushehr, Shamkhani says, "Iran would give a response that has crossed the minds of no Israeli official."
—"Iran has no plans to acquire nuclear arms, says defence minister," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 5 February 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; "Shamkhani: Iran Will Respond With Unimaginable Force," Tehran Times, 6 February 2002, in <http://www.tehrantimes.com>.

5 February 2002
Recently named "an axis of evil" by U.S. President George W. Bush, Iran, Iraq, and North Korea all possess Soviet-designed Scud missiles. North Korea has provided assistance to Iran's ballistic missile programs, but an Asian ambassador based in South Korea dismisses "a serious alliance between them [as] laughable."
—Tim Witcher, "Scud 'Axis' an Alliance with Missiles but no Direction," Agence France Presse, 5 February 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

6 February 2002
Sheikh Nabil Qaouk, Hezbollah's commander in southern Lebanon, says that his organization "has missiles on the [Israeli] border that limit [Israeli Prime Minister] Sharon's aggression." Iran had previously denied reports that it supplied Hezbollah with Katyusha rockets, but Qaouk acknowledges that Iran "[is] supporting us and helping us in our resistance against Israeli occupation." [Note: See entry for 4 February 2002.] Qaouk makes the remarks while leading Iranian Ambassador Mohammed Sobhani on a rare visit to the region, thereby demonstrating Tehran's support for Hezbollah. [Note: As the Israeli-Palestinian conflict intensifies, Hezbollah has played an increasingly active role, including firing at Israeli warplanes violating Lebanese airspace. The UN has called these Israeli flights "provocative."]
—David Sheehan, "Hizbullah admits to missiles on border; Hariri tells of growing impatience with Washington," Daily Star (Beirut), 7 February 2002; via FBIS, Document GMP20020207000162; Nicholas Blanford, "Emboldened by US Jibes, Hizbullah Prepares for War," Christian Science Monitor, 8 February 2002.

6 February 2002
Israeli Transportation Minister Ephraim Sneh says that Iran has "at least 20 long-range Shahab-3 [ballistic missiles] that can strike Israel." Speaking to delegates at an international conference in Paris on ballistic missile proliferation, Sneh said that Iran had on numerous occasions threatened to use its missiles against Israel.
—"Iran has produced 20 Shihab missiles, Israeli official says," World Tribune, 8 February 2002, in <http://www.worldtribune.com>.

7 February 2002
Hamid Eslami-Zad, the top Iranian official at the current conference in Paris discussing ballistic missile proliferation, says "Iran has always supported reviewing the issue of ballistic missiles at international gatherings." Iran holds the view that the United Nations should oversee the discussion of policies "to limit missile proliferation." France commends Iran for its proposal to the UN, and notes the importance of Iran participating in the conference. [Note: Iran co-sponsored UN Resolution 55/33, titled "Missiles," at the 2000 General Assembly. The Resolution calls for countries to report to the UN their views "on the issue of missiles in all its aspects."]
—"Iran calls for stepping up int'l cooperation to halt proliferation," Islamic Republic News Agency (Tehran), 7 February 2002, in <http://www.irna.com/>; "EU states relations with Iran will continue," Jam-e Jam (Tehran), 7 February 2002, via FBIS, Document IAP20020213000002.

7 February 2002
Based on a recently released National Intelligence Estimate (NIE), Iran has "more than 1,300 medium-range Shahab-3s." [Note: See entry for 9 January 2002. The Washington Times reporter misread the NIE, which says that Iran has "some 1,300km-range Shahab-3" missiles. Iran continues to experience difficulties with the Shahab-3 engine and has not been able to consistently produce the missile. Iran most likely has fewer than 20 Shahab-3s.]
—James Hackett, "Missile Defense Constraints," Washington Times, 7 February 2002, p. 18.

8 February 2002
Representatives of 73 countries, including Iran, "discuss a draft code of conduct" that would require states to report annually on their ballistic missile programs, as well as announce missile tests. The document is expected to be finalized and opened for signature by a conference in The Hague, scheduled for later this year. [Note: See entry for 7 February 2002.]
—"Experts from 73 States Discuss Missile Code of Conduct," Tehran Times, 12 February 2002, in <http://www.tehrantimes.com>.

11 February 2002
Based on information from the Central Intelligence Agency, China has recently provided Iran with "equipment, technology, and expertise related to ballistic missiles." Defense analysts believe that Washington should focus on China's sales of nuclear and missile technology to the Iran-Iraq-North Korea "axis of evil." [Note: See entry for 29 January 2002. The main suppliers of Iran's ballistic missile programs are entities in Russia, China, and North Korea.]
—Glenn Schloss, "China arms entwined in 'axis of evil'," South China Morning Post, 11 February 2002, in <http://www.scmp.com>.

13 February 2002
Iran is reportedly "playing a major role" in Libya's ballistic missile programs, particularly in helping Libya create an industrial base to manufacture liquid-fuel propellants and other technology. Israeli sources say that Libya plans to acquire Scud and medium-range ballistic missile engines from Iran or North Korea. Libya has also sent individuals working in their missile programs to Iran for training. Senior officials of the two countries decided earlier this year that Iran would supply Libya with necessary technology for developing the Al-Fatih surface-to-surface missile. Iran had agreed to help Libya indigenously produce missiles with a 1,500km range. Libya agreed to pay Iran $48 million by the middle of 2003, assuming Iran provides the required materials and develops the missile production lines. The two countries seem to have overcome differences that had placed the deal in jeopardy, and Libya has given Iran an initial payment of $4 million.
—Steve Rodan, "Libya steps up pursuit of MRBM capability," Jane's Defense Weekly, 12 February 2002, p. 16; "Report Notes Reason for 'Freezing' Iranian-Libyan Military Cooperation," Al-Sharq al-Awsat (London), 25 February 2002; via FBIS Document GMP20020225000169.

13 February 2002
According to Western intelligence sources, Syria and Iran collaborate on developing ballistic missiles and weapons of mass destruction, including building a factory to produce Scud missiles.
—"Syria turns to Iran for strategic assistance," World Tribune, 13 February 2002, in <http://www.worldtribune.com/>.

13 February 2002
The official Iranian press reports that Iran's aerospace industry has started producing missile and torpedoes for two new advanced ships named Zolfaqar and Zoljanah. The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps test-fired missiles and torpedoes as part of an inauguration ceremony for the new ships.
—"IRGC receives missile-launching vessels," Vision of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Tehran), 13 February 2002; via FBIS, Document IAP200320213000053.

Mid-February 2002
In anticipation of a possible American attack, Iran starts increasing its anti-ship and anti-air defenses on the three islands of Abu Musa and the Greater and Lesser Tunbs. Iran reportedly is amassing its Chinese and locally made surface-to-sea missiles, anti-aircraft missiles, and other heavy artillery on the islands. Iran also puts its anti-ship and anti-aircraft missile systems on alert at the Bandar Abbas naval base, as well as missiles guarding Kish Island. The islands are strategically located in the Strait of Hormuz, and could be instrumental if the United States attacks Iraq. Iran's control of Abu Musa and the Tunbs is disputed by the Emirates across the Gulf from Iran.
—"Iran Looks to Its Gulf Islands," DEBKA-Net-Weekly-Email (Jerusalem), 15 February 2002; via FBIS, Document GMP20020216000115.

15 February 2002
Alexei Krasnov, a prominent official in the Russian Aerospace Agency, says that Russian entities do not provide Iran with sensitive ballistic missile technology. Krasnov says that Russia has investigated 13 cases presented by the United States and found no violations. Krasnov acknowledges that some of the organizations previously placed under sanctions by the United States were set up as illicit covers for transferring technology out of Russia. No sensitive technology had been leaked, however. [Note: The United States placed sanctions on 10 Russian entities in July 1998; see entry for 18 July 1998.]
—Vladimir Isachenkov, "Russian officials deny U.S. claims that missile know-how leaked to Iran," Associated Press, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

19 February
John Bolton, U.S. Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, tells Russia's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Georgy Mamedov that Washington is very concerned with Russia providing nuclear and ballistic missile technology to Iran. Stopping the technical assistance to Iran is "a very high priority" for the United States.
—Alex Wagner, "U.S. Presses Russia on Nuclear, Missile Cooperation with Iran," Arms Control Today, March 2002, <http://www.armscontrol.org>.

20 February 2002
According to Israel's Jaffe Center for Strategic Studies, "North Korea is the most important provider of missiles in the Middle East," as Russia and China have drastically cut back their missile exports to Iran, Syria and Libya. North Korea sells missiles and related technology to the region.
—Hwang Jang-jin, "North Korea's continuing missile exports threaten Middle East peace," Korea Herald, 20 February 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

20 February 2002
Russian officials say their country "is not supplying any missile technologies" to Iran. U.S. representatives are in Moscow preparing for President Bush's meeting with President Putin this May. Russian officials say the United States has not presented any evidence that would confirm the allegations. [Note: See entry for 19 February 2002.]
—"Russia Rejects US Linkage of Iran Cooperation and Missile Talks," BBC, 20 February 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

20 February 2002
The Washington Post reports that Russian and U.S. officials ended talks today sharply at odds over Moscow's cooperation with Iran's nuclear and missile programs. Both sides had been working together to prepare for the Presidents' May summit. The United States has made curbing Russian brain-drain to Iran a priority, while Russians are demanding the U.S. limit its plans for missile defense.
—Sharon LaFraniere, "U.S., Russia divided over Iran after talks," The Washington Post, 20 February 2002.

21 February 2002
Iran's Army helicopters successfully tested indigenously produced TOW air-to-ground missiles for the first time ever. The missiles are made by the Ministry of Defense Armed Forces Logistics. According to army commander Brigadier General Amir Mohammadifar, "these missiles are better than their foreign counterparts, and they have longer range."
—"Army Aviation Tests New Air-to-Ground 'TOW' Missiles," Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Tehran), 21 February, 2002; via FBIS, Document IAP20020221000017; "Iran Test-Fires New Air-to-Surface Missile," Xinhua News Agency, 22 February 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 February 2002
U.S. President George W. Bush is unsuccessful in getting a pledge from China to not sell nuclear weapons and missile technology to Iran and North Korea. Bush "hopes that China will strongly oppose the proliferation of missiles and other deadly technologies." The CIA previously said that Chinese organizations supplied Iran, North Korea, and Libya with "dual-use missile related items, raw materials, and/or assistance" in 2001. [Note: In January 2002, Washington imposed sanctions on two Chinese companies for providing chemical and biological weapons technology to Iran and North Korea. Another Chinese firm was sanctioned in September 2001 for selling missile technology to Pakistan.]
—"China Makes No Promises on Arms Sales," Global News Wire, 25 February 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; Alex Wagner, "No Deal Reached on Chinese Missile Proliferation," Arms Control Today, March 2002, <http://www.armscontrol.org>.

21 February 2002
A Western diplomat dismisses as "questionable" U.S. and Israeli assessments that Iran is developing intercontinental ballistic missiles. Iran has had a difficult time producing fully operational missiles; two of three tests of its 600-mile-range Shahab-3 have failed. Russian specialists ostensibly in Iran to help develop their missile programs are said to be hired largely "for show."
—Scott Peterson, "Iran's nuclear challenge: deter, not antagonize," Christian Science Monitor, 21 February 2002, in <http://www.csmonitor.com>.

28 February 2002
Azerbaijani TV reports say that Iran's armed forces have 38 ships carrying Scud missiles in the Caspian Sea. Iran's Foreign Minister says the report is false, and is intended to damage relations between the two countries. Azerbaijan's Defense Minister also dismissed the report as "propaganda."
—"Azerbaijani TV reports Iran stationing 38 naval ships in Caspian Sea," ANS Television (Baku), 28 February 2002; via FBIS Document CEP200203010000204.

March 2002
As of March 2002, there are 10 entities operating in Iran, North Korea, Pakistan, and China that are currently under U.S. sanctions for missile proliferation activities. The Defense Industries Oranganization, the Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics, the SANAM Industrial Group, and the Shahid Hemmzt Industrial Group have all been found guilty of Category II violations.
—"U.S. Missile Sanctions: Fact Sheet, March 2002," Arms Control Association, March 2002, <http://www.armscontrol.org>.

March/April 2002
Iran's missile program has recently been accelerated by the U.S. intent to do battle with neighboring Iraq. Experts feel that Tehran will be able to hit anywhere in Asia or Europe, perhaps the United States within a decade, as the Islamic Republic is currently developing the Shahab-4 and -5 with ranges of 2,000km and 10,000km, respectively, as well as the satellite-launched Shahab-6. Much of Iran's help has come from Russia, China, and North Korea, with sales of complete missiles, such as HQ-7 short-range missiles, as well as technologies and engines reverse engineered from other programs.
—Michael Rubin, “Iran’s Burgeoning WMD Programs,” Middle East Intelligence Bulletin, March/ April 2002, <http://www.meib.org>.

5 March 2002
China's ambassador to Israel told the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee that Beijing makes "a concerted effort" to restrict private Chinese entities from selling missile and other weapons technology to Iran. China "takes action" against those who transfer sensitive technology. [Note: See entry for 21 February 2002. President Jiang Zemin failed to provide President George W. Bush with concrete assurances that China would not sell missile technology to Iran. The ambassador's comments in Israel indicate that China is aware that unauthorized transfers may be taking place.]
—"China Envoy Notes 'Concerted Effort' Against Technology Leakage to Iran," Voice of Israel Network (Jerusalem), 5 March 2002; via FBIS Document GMP20020305000233.

8 March 2002
According to U.S. intelligence sources, Iran is collaborating with Libya, North Korea, Pakistan, and Syria to develop intermediate- and long-range ballistic missiles. Iran and Pakistan have not been previously known to share weapons technology. "If Iran needs something, it is willing to trade with just about anybody," said an intelligence source. North Korea and Pakistan have provided Iran with technology that can increase the range of Scud missiles by "clustering engines and adding extra stages to the rocket." The Central Intelligence Agency says that this technology could convert a 300km-range Scud into an intercontinental missile. The collaboration is in response to Russia reducing its missile technology sales to Iran over the past year. Russia is still helping Iran with its Shahab-3 missile program, but is no longer providing assistance for its longer-range Shahab-4.
—"Iran Pools Resources for Missile Development," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4 No. 94, 8 March 2002.

11 March 2002
Robert Walpole, national intelligence officer for strategic and nuclear programs, says that Iran is interested in North Korean space-launch technology as a foundation for manufacturing intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) or intermediate-range ballistic missiles. Iran is most interested in North Korea's Taepodong-1 and Taepodong-2, which the United States says are ICBMs, but North Korea claims as space launch vehicles. "If Iran were to acquire complete Taepodong-2 systems from North Korea, it could conduct a flight-test within a year of delivery, allowing time for them to build a launch facility," says Walpole, based on information in a recently released National Intelligence Estimate. [Note: See entry for 9 January 2002 report on the National Intelligence Estimate.] Walpole says that the U.S. intelligence agencies who compiled the report believe that "Iran could attempt to launch an ICBM about mid-decade, but ...is likely to take until the last half of the decade to do so," Russia is assisting Iran's missile programs "more than the Russians are willing to admit," says Walpole, but "Iran is unlikely to acquire a complete ICBM or space-launch vehicle from Russia." China also is a major supplier of missile technology to Iran and other countries.
—Robert Walpole, "Hearing on CIA National Intelligence Estimate of Foreign Missile Development and the Ballistic Missile Threat through 2015," U.S. Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs, 11 February 2002, in <http://www.senate.gov/>. [Note: The Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs lists Walpole's hearing as taking place on 11 March 2002, but on the title page for Walpole's testimony, the date is listed as 11 February. The correct date is 11 March, as 11 February was a national holiday.]; "Iran Seeks Space-Launch Capability for Missile Plans," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4, No. 119, 27 March 2002; "Greater Concern About Iranian Missile Capability," Reuters, 11 March 2002, <http://www.reuters.com/>.

20 March 2002
U.S. intelligence sources are tracking an Iranian ship believed to be transporting North Korean gunboats that Iran will use for guided-missile warships. The ship, the Meead, was first monitored in late February, on its way from Bandar Abbas, Iran to Tianjin, China, and then to Nampo, North Korea. Iran now has 10 guided-missile fast-attack boats. [Note: Iran previously received anti-ship missiles from China. See entry for January 2002.]
—Bill Gertz, "N. Korea Gunboat Shipment Helps Iran Expand Military," Washigton Times, 20 March 2002, p. 3.

27 March 2002
Israeli and U.S. intelligence officials say that in return for information on Israeli military positions, Iran provides Yasser Arafat's Palestinian Authority with "heavy weapons and millions of dollars." In January, Israel intercepted a shipment of heavy weapons, including 62 Katyusha rockets, intended for the Palestinians. [Note: See entry for 3 January 2002.] This new "alliance" demonstrates the strong support that Iran is providing the Palestinians in its on-going clash with Israel.
—"A Secret Iran-Arafat Connection is Seen Fueling the Mideast Fire," New York Times, 24 March 2002, in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.

May 2002
U.S. officials indicate they will soon announce sanctions against entities that are contributing to Iran's ballistic missile and WMD programs. Currently, Iran is believed to have a handful of liquid-fueled Shahab-3 missiles, with serial production reportedly having begun in the spring of 2001, however the reliability of these missiles is questionable. Jane's Defence Weekly reports that Iran lacks the indigenous production capability to produce Shahab-3 rocket motors, and instead relies on a supply of 20 Nodong engines recieved from North Korea in 1999. Jane's further sites that Iran's struggle with such complex tasks makes the production of the 2000-km range Shahab-4 unlikely.
—Andrew Krepps, "Iran's Ballistic Missiles: Rhetoric Outpacing Reality?" Carnegie Analysis, 9 May 2002, <http://www.ceip.org/>.

Early May
The successful test of Iran's Shahab-3 ballistic missile brings Iran one step closer to having a long-range missile capapable of being equipped with conventional or "other" warheads, as early as 2004, according to the latest Israeli intelligence assessments. Previous tests in September 2000 using Iranian-built engines had failed seconds after launch. The Iranian Shahab-3 resembles the SS-1 Scud, but is around 40 percent bigger than the North Korean Nodong, from which it was co-derived with the help of North Korea.
—"Iran missile test boosts long-range missile capacity bid," Flight International, 4-10 June 2002.

7 May 2002
Defense Minister Vice Adm. Ali Shamkhani states Iran is working to improve the power and radius of its Shahab-3 long-range missile: "...currently, the supply and strengthening of the Shahab-3 missile is one of the defense policies of Iran, and using smart systems can reasonably boost the Shahab-3 destructive power, accuracy and range." Iran is also developing the Shahab-4 with the assistance of Russia and other countries. The missile will have an initial range of 1,250 miles, but anticipated upgrades would allow it to reach most of western Europe.
—"Iran strengthening capabilities of its long-range missile, defense minister says," Associated Press Worldstream, 7 May 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; George Gedda, "Iran developing missile capabel of reaching U.S. allies in Europe, official says," Associated Press, 7 May 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

16 May 2002
The Jerusalem Post reports that Turkish Intelligence has determined that Iran will proceed with the production of the Shahab-3 missile after last months supposedly successful test. The report cites that Iran now plans to produce 150 of the missile, each capable of dropping a one-ton warhead on Israel. The report also notes that Iran is preparing to test its 1,200 mile Shahab-4 missile soon. Israeli officials estimate Iran has been able to amass at least 20 Shahab-3s, which are based on North Korean design. Experts at the Jaffee Center for Strategic Studies questioned the validity of the report.
—"Iranian missile can hit Israel, report says," Jerusalem Post, 16 May 2002.

17 May 2002
The Washington Times reports that China's military has sold Iran high-speed C-14 missile patrol boats, according to defense intelligence officials. These high-speed gunboats can carry up to eight C-701 anti-ship cruise missiles each. The Bush administration is investigating the boat transfers to see whether they violate U.S. proliferation laws. The administration announced last week that it would impose economic sanctions on eight Chinese companies and exporters as well as several companies from other countries for selling chemical weapons technology and cruise missile components to Iran.
—Bill Gertz and Rowan Scarborough, "Iran's missile boats," The Washington Times, 17 May 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

23 May 2002
The Associated Press cites U.S. officials on Iran's recent Shahab-3 tests, indicating that the test might have been the fifth for the missile. U.S. intelligence officers have stated that Iran can probably fire a few of the missiles in an emergency, as well as their Scud missiles, which have a range of 300 miles. The Shahab-3 is based on North Korean Nodong missile engines, though Iran receives assistance from China and Russia as well. Iranian officials are also cited as stating they intend to develop the Shahab-4 and -5, based on the North Korean Taepodong-1, both capable of reaching targets in Europe.
—John Lumpkin, "Iran conducts successful flight test of ballistic missile," Associated Press, 23 May 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

24 May 2002
The Jerusalem Post cites Turkish intelligence on the recent successful testing of Iran's Shahab-3 in the Semman region last month. [Note: see 16 May entry.] Turkey is particularly concerned and warned that it would need to take countermeasures since Turkish cities would be in range of the Shahab-3 and that Turkey and Israel are Iran's prime targets. According to the Turkish intelligence report, Iran has already procured sophisticated Russian S-300 missile air defense systems, for which Iran has sent a number of technicians to Moscow for training. Iran's missile industry currently has some 500 missiles in its arsenal, including 195 300-km Scud-Bs, 150 500-km Scud-Cs, 25 150-km CSS-8s, and 25 200-km Musshaks.
—"The Iranian Way" The Jerusalem Post, 24 May 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

25 May 2002
Defense Minister Ali Shamkhani says on state-run Tehran television that U.S. pressure on China and Russia to halt cooperation with Iran has no impact on its self-sufficient missile program.
—"Iran Says U.S. pressure has no effect on Iran's missile program," Associated Press, 25 May 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

25 May 2002
The official IRNA news agency quotes Defense Minister Ali Shamkhani as vowing to stick to the country's missile program in defiance of U.S. pressure following Iran's recent projectile tests. He is quoted as saying Iran will continue upgrading its Shahab-3 missile in order to promote the power and precision of the Shahab-3, although the country has no plan to add a new type to its Shahabs. "All the recent tests which were carried out quite successfully were intended to upgrade the missile and are not regarded as a new production or step toward increasing its range," he said. 
—"Iran DM vows to stick to missile program against U.S. pressure," Xinhua News Agency, 26 May 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

27 May 2002
News agencies cite Israeli Chief of General Staff Lt. -Gen. Shaul Mofaz as expressing concern over Iran's recent successful tests of their Shahab-3 missile, warning that the day was approaching "when Tehran could pose a threat to the Jewish state."
—Arieh O'Sullivan, Herb Keinon, "Iranian Shehab-3 missile a threat," The Jerusalem Post, 27 May 2002; "Israel expresses concern over Iran's test of medium range missile" Xinhua News Agency, 27 May 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

5 June 2002
The BBC reports that when questioned at his weekely news conference, Turkish Foreign Ministry Spokesman Huseyin Dirioz stated Iran's recent Shahab-3 missile tests were aimed to increase the range and the destructive force of the missiles. He was quoted as saying, "...these missiles and the increase in their range do not contribute to regional or global security and stability." He further stated that "preventing the propagation of weapons of mass destruction and launch pads is an important priority for Turkey."
—"Turkish Foreign Ministry says Iran missile tests do not contribute to stability," BBC, 5 June 2002; "Turkey expresses concern over Iranian ballisitc missile test," Associated Press, 5 June 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

5 June 2002
In his press conference with the National Press Club, Representative Curt Weldon addresses previous faults in United States and Russian policy for arms control violations and missile proliferation between Russia, China, Iran, and other countries in the late 1990s.
—Representative Curt Weldon, Press Conference in the National Press Club Morning Newsmaker, 5 June 2002, via Federal News Service. 

6 June 2002
Gary Milhollin, Director of the Wisconsin Project on Nuclear Arms Control, testifies before the Senate Subcommittee on International Security, Proliferation, and Federal Services. Milhollin states that much of Iran's missile help has come from China and Russia, and that most of the cases of proliferation have come from repeat offenders—companies that have been previously sanctioned by the United States for past export offences—and that the United States needs to do more to halt proliferation abroad.
"Nonproliferation disputes involving Russia and China," Capitol Hill Hearing Testimony, 6 June 2002, from the Federal Document Clearing House, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>. 

26 June 2002
The Jerusalem Post reports that Iran and Syria are among the many elements threatening to destabilize the Middle East region, according to Israeli Minister Binyamin Ben-Eliezer. "The whole world is sleepinf while Iran builds a core nuclear infrastructure that is going to do something bad to interests of the world," he stated while also mentioning that all of Israel's densely populated areas are within reach of Iran's missiles, and that U.S. attacks in Iraq will only lead Iraq and Iran to retaliate against the United State's closest ally, Israel.
—Tovah Lazaroff, "Ben-Eliezer: World ignoring Iranian nuclear threat," The Jerusalem Post, 26 June 2002.

Late June 2002
The Times London reports Israeli Mossad Director Epreaim Halevy warned NATO this week that Iran is not only pressing ahead with a nuclear weapons program, but is developing missiles capable of hitting Europe and North America. Halevy told NATO representatives that Iran is investing heavily in the construction of a missile with a range beyond that of its Shahab-3. He also accused the regime of developing a nuclear weapon capability as well as secret chemical and biological weapons programs. Mr. Halevy also wanted to serve notice to NATO that Israel regards Iran as a direct threat to its security and unless the nuclear and missile issues are resolved peacefully it may take action on it own.
—Richard Beeston, "Mossad chief warns of Iran missile threat," The Times (London), 28 June 2002.

10 July 2002
The Global Security Newswire reports that U.S. defense officials believe Iran has completed development of the Shahab-3 and that it will now have to be a weapon that needs to be factored into U.S. planning, reflecting increased concern over Iran's weapons of mass destruction programs. Some experts suspect that Iran is moving on to longer-range missiles such as the Shahab-4, though other experts are skeptical of Iran's success with the speed and evolution of the their missile program.
—"Iran: Shehab-3 development complete, Pentagon says," NTI, 10 July 2002, in <http://www.nti.org/>.

28 August 2002
FBIS reports on recent interviews from Iranian officials. Minister of Defense Rear Admiral Ali Shamkhani states that peace and stability will prevail in the region only through Iran's build-up of power, and with Iran's current military force, Iran is capable of decreasing the "temptation" of their enemies from attacking them, he further states. Presidential Advisor Mohammad Reze Tajik states that Iran is in need of technical innovations, such as the U.S. Stealth Bombers, Tomahawk, and Cruise missiles, in order to ensure military superiority like the United States. Iran has the Shahab-3 to deter Israel as well as the air forces of other regimes, such as that of the United Arab Emirates.
—"Iran: FBIS report on officials interviewed on Khatami’s defense strategy," via FBIS Report, 28 August 2002, Document IAP20020910000073.

6 September 2002
The official IRNA new agency reports that Iran has successfully test-fired a solid-fueled surface-to-surface missile, dubbed the Fateh A-110. Iranian Defense Ministry stated the missiles "ultramodern control system" was also tested, and that they would begin to mass produce the missile shortly. The Fateh A-110 may be based on the Chinese DF-11 A missile, which has a range of 186-248 miles, and is capable of carrying nuclear warheads.
—"Iran successfully test-fires surface-to-surface missile," Xinhua New Agency, 6 September 2002 in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; Modher Amin, "Iran test fires new missile," United Press International, 6 September 2002; Ali Akbar Dareini, "Iran successfully tests fires surface-to-surface missile," Associated Press, 6 September 2002.

24 September 2002
Agence France Presse reports that Iran began production today of their new Fateh A-110 surface-to-surface missile according to the IRNA state news agency. Iran's Defense Minister Ali Shamkhani also asserted that they have no intentions on increasing the range of its missiles, but that they Fateh A-110 is "one of the most precise in the world." U.S. officials believe the Fateh-110 was developed with the Chinese help, as many Iranian engineers traveled to China in 1997 to view a ground test of the missile. China has also helped Iran with missile testing equipment, such as special x-ray machines. Iran is also reportedly working on a new sea-launched cruise missile called the Nur, as well as armor piercing missiles. Shamkhani insists the domestically manufactured missiles are in line with international criteria.
—"Iran begins production of new surface-to-surface missile," Agence France Presse, 24 September 2002; "Iran missile program in line with international criteria," IRNA, 24 September 2002, via FBIS Document IAP20020924000098; "U.S. credits China for improved Iran missiles," Geostrategy, 24 September 2002, <http://www.geostrategy-direct.com/>.

3 October 2002
Ahmad Vahid, the head of the Iranian missile development project, in an interview with the Al-Hayat newspaper, reveals that Iran's long-range missiles were developed specifically for the purpose of being able to retaliate against Israel, should Israel strike Iran. Wahid states that the Shahab-3 was designed specifically to counter Israel's Jericho missiles. Wahid also announced that Iran intends to launch an experimental satellite using the Shahab rocket, though it was not clear if he was referring to the Shahab-3 or -4. He also counters claims that Iran is seeking both nuclear weapons and missile with a range of 12,000km, stating that both claims were false.
—David Rudge, "Iran: Shehab missile designed to target Israel," Jerusalem Post, 4 October 2002; "Iranian missiles aimed at Israel," Iranian Press Service, 4 October 2002. <http://www.iran-press-service.com>.

10 October 2002
Mohammad Khatami announces to the Japanese foreign ministry that Iran had sought weapons from other countries during the Iran-Iraq War. His statement followed comments on the similarities between sanctions imposed on both Iran and North Korea, and could in fact be a confirmation that Iran bought missiles from North Korea during the war. Khatami added, however, that all such dealings with countries, including North Korea, ended once the war was over.
—"Iranian hints at past missile purchase from N. Korea," Jiji Press, 10 October 2002, via FBIS Document JPP20021010000188.

11 October 2002
State Department spokesman Richard Boucher, when confirming U.S. concerns over Syria and Russian involvement in Syria's weapons of mass destruction program, asserted that Iran was of greater concern, as Iran's weapons programs were much larger and much more developed, and that the United States was devoting much more attention to Iran than Syria.
—"U.S.says it is concerned about Syrian nuclear and missile programs," Agence France Presse, 11 October 2002.

11 October 2002
The Daily Telegraph reports that Russia has supplied Iran with parts and powerful new technologies for its long-range missiles. The National Council of Resistance of Iran and American intelligence have reported successful test-firings of the missile in a desert range in Iran with contributions from Russian, North Korean and Chinese scientists and companies. The NCRI has been told twice the Tehran twice test-fired the new Shahab-4, though the Pentagon believes recent tests involved upgraded versions of the Shahab-3. U.S. intelligence believes that Russia has provided Iran with a powerful new motor to replace at least one of the North Korean Nodong engines, creating a Russian-North Korean hybrid after two failed attempts with North Korean engines. The new Shahab-4 is believed to be based on the Soviet SS-4 missile, and uses entirely Russian technology. According to documents seen by the NCRI, Tehran has secured a $7 million contract with a Russian company for high-grade steel and special alloys for the Shahab-4 missile casing and for foil shielding around the guidance system. This deal demolishes Iranian claims that they were not working on the Shahab-4, as boasted by Mr. Shamkhani. Russian officials, when presented with evidence of the deal, insisted that the individual companies were acting without authorization.
—Philip Sherwell, "Russia adds range to Iran’s latest missile," Daily Telegraph, 10 October 2002, <http://www.dailytelegraph.co.uk>.

10 October 2002
U.S. Under Secretary of State John Bolton asserts to members of the Senate International Affairs Committee that the United States is "...still very concerned that the nuclear missile programs of Iran and Syria are continuing with the technological and expert assistance from Russia."
—Aleksandr Shumilin, "Moscow Daily eyes US Under Secretary Bolton’s Criticism of Syria, Iran," Moscow Izvestiya, 11 October 2002, via FBIS Document CEP20021010000328.

16 October 2002
Soona Samsami of the National Council of Resistance of Iran announces in a press conference that Iran was testing missiles with a 2,000km range, capable of delivering chemical and biological warheads to targets as far as Europe and North Africa. Samsami said the Iranians had tested the Shahab-4 missiles last May and June in the Semnan region and that the missiles were "masqueraded" as Shahab-3s. She also adds that Iran is developing the Shahab-5 with a 5,000km range, and the Shahab-6, which qualifies as an intercontinental ballistic missile.
—"Iranian opposition group accuses Iran of missile testing," Agence France Presse, 16 October 2002.

22 October 2002
The Associated Press reports that the failed Iranian missile test last July was a modified Shahab-3. A normal Shahab-3 has a range of 800 miles, it is unclear how much the Iranians attempted to extend this range, according to U.S. defense officials. The missile has been tested four times with mixed success and is based on the North Korean Nodong. Iranian opposition groups had claimed that recent flight-tests were of Shahab-4s disguised as Shahab-3s, though U.S. officials do not believe the Shahab-4 program has moved beyond the developmental stages.
—John Lumpkin, "Iran fails in attempt to extend missile range, U.S. defense official says," Associated Press, 22 October 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

Late October
The Iranian Student New Agency reports that Cabinet Spokesman Abdollah Ramezanzadeh, in response to questions about Iran’s Shahab-4, states, "We shall do whatever is necessary to defend the country."
—"Iran: Cabinet spokesman speaks on Iraq, missiles, Kurdistan, poll centre," BBC, 23 October 2002.

31 October 2002
Yossef Bodansky of Defense & Foreign Affairs, releases his study on the connections between Iran's ballistic missile and WMD programs and those of the DPRK. Bodansky stresses that the April 1997 Iranian missile tests actually used Soviet SS-20 technologies, and would therefore give the missile a range of 5,000 to 7,500km, far greater than the 2,500km range from the test data. The Russians believe that the only way the Iranian missile programs could have evolved this way would be through the help of specific Russian design bureaus, the same bureaus responsible for the development of the SS-25 Topol and the Topol M, both missiles with a range of 10,500km. While Russian military intelligence is certain Iran had the SS-20 technology, it lacks the evidence that the A.D. Nadiradze OKB design bureau was involved, leaving the Russians to conclude that the technology was recycled through China, using its DF-31 and DF-41 technologies that it had acquired through Russia between 1991 and 1992. The DF-41 is a follow-up ICBM with a range of 12,000km. Iran has shown a prolonged interest in purchasing long-range ballistic missiles capable of reaching the United States, and since the United States has been monitoring all major transfers out of China, Beijing must have elected to avoid outright sales and instead focused on technological and industrial assistance to Iran. With this, Iran embarked on a three-phase plan to develop ballistic missiles, the first phase involving 2,500km range missiles, the second using 5,500km range MRBMs, and the third phase, 10,000km range missiles, should be competed by the time Iran has refined its nuclear warhead models and brought them to a fully operational status.

Iran contacted various German and Japanese companies to acquire sophisticated technologies for its joint MRBM program with the DPRK, while in the mid-1990s, Iran sought and acquired RD-214 engines from Russia to compensate for its troubles with its pre-production North Korean Nodong-2 engines. Bodansky explains the various correlations to the Russian, North Korean, and Chinese missile engines and parts before explaining why Iran chose the combinations it did to develop its derivative of the North Korean Taepodong-2 missile with a range of 5,500km. The German BND confirmed specific information on the missile, including the range and payload, with the 770kg warhead being deigned for chemical weapons delivery.
—Yossef Bodansky, "Iran's ballistic missile and WMD programs: the links to the DPRK," Defense & Foreign Affairs Daily, 31 October 2002.

12 December 2002
Various news agencies report that Tokyo police and customs officials raided offices of a machinery company suspected of illegally exporting technology capable of producing solid fuel for missiles to Iran. Eleven offices of the Seishin Enterprise Co. Ltd., as well as the home of the president, were raided on suspicion that the firm exported two Jet Mill machines to an Iranian military goods company and to a rocket science laboratory at a university in Iran. Seishin is suspected if shipping the dual-use equipment between May 1999 and November 2000.
—"Japan firm raided over suspected missile tech sale to Iran," Jiji Press and Kyodo News Agencies, 12 December 2002, via Agence France Presse, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

16 December 2002
The Associated Press reports that Vladimir Orlov, director of the PIR Center for Policy Studies in Russia, and his colleagues believe that Iran's missile program and acquisition of nuclear technologies must be carefully taken into consideration by both Russia and the UN. The uncertain political future, as well as the controversial decisionmaking process in Iran could easily cover two different programs, one a cover for the other. Orlov also reiterates that Iran's nuclear program may not necessarily be for nuclear weapons, but there are concerns and thus Iran's reactors still merit close monitoring by the IAEA.
—Steve Gutterman, "Russian experts call for Kremlin pressure to allow broader monitoring of Iranian nuclear program," Associated Press, 16 December 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

	Updated February 2006