Reports noted that Iran is significantly, and at an unprecedented pace expanding capabilities to accommodate larger missiles and satellite launch vehicles (SLVs), including the Simorgh 3 SLV in construction at Semnan space centre, according to Jane’s analysis of satellite imagery of the site. The site is likely to assume operational readiness by 2013, judging by the pace of construction. Iran’s growing capabilities should become a cause of concern for the US, which has mounted pressure on the Iranian regime to forgo its nuclear weaponisation programme.1

However, Russian Navy is planning to commission up to 10 Graney class nuclear-powered attack submarines, which are designed to launch a variety of long-range cruise missiles (up to 3,100 miles or 5,000 km), with conventional or nuclear warheads, and effectively engage submarines, surface warships and land-based targets, by 2020. It is reported that the submarine's armament includes 24 cruise missiles and eight torpedo launchers, as well as mines and anti-ship missiles. Russia’s renewed efforts to revive its military might is backed by her impressive show on the economic front and triggered by the desire to play important role at the world stage.2

• 1. “Iran accelerates space and missile launch projects”, IHS Jane's, 18 March 2011 at http://www.janes.com/news/defence/jdw/jdw110318_1_n.shtml
• 2. “Russian Navy Planning To Get 10 Graney Class Attack Submarines By 2020”, Mar 18, 2011 at http://asian-defence.blogspot.com/