Iran Tests Qased Satellite Carrier in Suborbital Launch

Iran successfully conducted a suborbital test of its Qased satellite carrier on Monday.

The launch aimed to evaluate new technologies currently in development as part of the nation's growing space program, The Caspian Post reports, citing Iranian media.

The results of this test will be used to improve the performance of Iran’s satellites and broader space systems.

Such tests by Iran have previously drawn Western concern due to the dual-use potential of the launch vehicle, capable of delivering satellites or, potentially, ballistic payloads.

Iran’s space endeavors began in 2009 with the launch of the Omid (Hope) satellite. The government insists that its space activities are solely peaceful, yet the dual-use nature of space technology-capable of supporting both civilian and military operations-has raised alarms, particularly among the United States and its allies.

Iran’s January 2024 launch of the Soraya satellite aboard the Qaem 100 rocket drew condemnation from the European Troika (E3) - Britain, France, and Germany.

In a joint statement, the E3 expressed concern over Iran's ongoing missile tests, highlighting that the Qaem 100 launcher uses the same technology as Iran’s long-range ballistic missiles.

These launches enable Iran to test technologies that could potentially advance its ballistic missile program, the statement said.