Tuesday, September 5 2006 11:30 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Tehran: Iran said yesterday (Sept 5,2006) it had tested a new air defence system to counter missiles and aircraft during large-scale military exercises throughout the country,state-run television reported.

"The upgraded missiles successfully destroyed the presumed enemies' missiles in low altitude simultaneously in several points," said Gen Amir Amini, deputy commander of Iran's Air Force.



The television footage showed at least four surface-to-air missiles being fired from mobile launching pads. The report did not say if the missile is equipped with a guidance system.

During manoeuvres dubbed 'The Blow of Zolfaghar,' which began in August 19, Iran test fired short range surface-to-surface and sub-to-surface missiles.

Iran's military test-fired a series of missiles during large-scale war games in the Persian Gulf in March and April, including a missile it claimed was not detectable by radar that can use multiple warheads to hit several targets simultaneously.

After decades of relying on foreign weapons purchases,Iran now says it is increasingly self-sufficient in its military equipment claiming it annually exports more than US$100 million worth of military equipment to more than 50 countries.

Since 1992, Iran has produced its own tanks, armoured personnel carriers, missiles and a fighter plane, the government has said. It announced in early 2005 that it had begun production of torpedoes.