Iranian missile range sparks worldwide defense expansion

Ballistic missiles are entering a new phase of global proliferation, driven by lessons from the wars in Ukraine and Iran and the collapse of the 1988‑2019 INF Treaty. Since 2022 Russia has used intermediate‑range missiles against Ukrainian air defenses, while Iran has reportedly launched around 2,000 projectiles since February, straining interceptor stocks.

Iran possesses several medium‑range missiles—Ghadr, Emad, Sejjil and Khorramshahr—with ranges of 2,000‑4,000 km, technically capable of reaching Ukraine, though political leaders say a direct strike is unlikely. The threat has prompted NATO to earmark about $50 billion for long‑range weapons and spurred new programs: South Korea’s Hyunmoo‑5, Japan’s hypersonic‑capable missiles, a joint European long‑range strike initiative, and the U.S. nearing operational status for the Dark Eagle hypersonic system. The expanding missile market is attracting investors to defense, aerospace and security firms worldwide.