For the first time since the end of the war with Israel—during which the Israeli Air Force targeted Iran’s missile infrastructure—Iran has announced a missile test involving its Qased satellite launch vehicle. The rocket, a three-stage system developed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, first flew in 2020. Semi-official Iranian news agency Tasnim reported Monday that the launch was not intended to place a satellite into orbit. Instead, it was a suborbital test flight, meant to evaluate “new technologies” developed by Iran’s space industry. The report said the test results would contribute to improving the country’s satellite and broader space capabilities. Western governments have long expressed concern about Iran’s space program, viewing it as a potential cover for the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles, since both technologies rely on similar engineering. Despite last month’s Operation Rising Lion by Israel, which systematically targeted Iranian missile production facilities, Tehran maintains it still possesses significant launch capabilities.

Full report : Tehran reports a suborbital test of the IRGC’s Qased rocket, not aimed at space launch; The results, Iran says, will enhance its space capabilities.