Iran Says Test of Upgraded Short-RangeMissile Was a Success

TEHRAN (AP) - Iran said Saturday that it had successfully test-fired an upgraded version of a short-range ballistic missile with improved accuracy, increasing its capacity to strike land and naval targets. Iran's defense minister, Brig. Gen. Ahmad Vahidi, said the solid-fueled Fateh-110 missile had a range of 185 miles. He also said the weapon could strike with pinpoint precision, making it the most accurate weapon of its kind in Iran's arsenal. "By reaching this generation of the Fateh-110, a new capability has been added to our armed forces in striking sea and land targets," state television quoted General Vahidi as saying. Iran's military leaders have said they believe that future wars will be air- and sea-based, and Tehran has sought to upgrade its air defense systems and naval power in anticipation of such a possibility.