Iran Tests Qaseed Rocket to Launch Low Earth Orbit Satellites

Iran has conducted a suborbital test launch of its Qaseed (Qased) three-stage rocket, marking its first satellite-related missile test since the end of its conflict with Israel.

The test, aimed at evaluating new aerospace technologies, has renewed international scrutiny over the dual-use nature of Iran’s space program.

The launch, reported by Iranian state media, was not intended to place a satellite into orbit but to assess components under development in Iran’s military-linked space industry. The results of this test will be used to improve the performance of Iran’s satellites and broader space systems.

The Qaseed rocket is developed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force. It is designed to place lightweight satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO), using technology derived from ballistic missile systems. The rocket’s first stage is based on the Ghadr-H medium-range ballistic missile, using storable liquid propellants. The second stage features a solid-fuel engine with a rotating nozzle and carbon fiber construction, while the third stage is believed to use a compact solid-fuel motor optimized for orbital insertion.

Iran’s space program, which began with the launch of the Omid satellite in 2009, continues to draw criticism from Western governments who argue that the technology used for launching satellites is similar to that used for ballistic missiles.

In recent months, Iran’s space efforts have escalated, including the January 2024 launch of the Soraya satellite aboard the Qaem 100 rocket and the September 2023 deployment of the Noor-3 satellite using the same Qaseed launcher.

The latest test follows last month’s Israeli-led Operation Rising Lion, which targeted key Iranian missile production facilities. Despite the strikes, Tehran’s ability to conduct the test signals continued resilience in its launch capabilities.

Coinciding with the test, Iran announced it will resume nuclear talks with Britain, France, and Germany in Istanbul this Friday. The talks are the first since Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear infrastructure. European nations have warned that sanctions lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal may be reinstated unless negotiations proceed. In response, Iran's foreign ministry said its goal is to end current sanctions, though it ruled out direct talks with the United States for now.

The United Nations has not yet commented on the Qaseed test. However, under U.N. Security Council Resolution 2231, Iran is "called upon" not to undertake launches using ballistic missile technology capable of delivering nuclear weapons.