Fattah Hypersonic Missile

Prelims Bits

Context:

Iran deployed the Fattah missile in a recent attack on Israel, marking a significant step in its missile development program.

About the Fattah Missile:

• Name Meaning: “Fattah” translates to “Conqueror” in Persian.
• Type: Iran’s first indigenously developed hypersonic ballistic missile.
• Propulsion System: Employs a two-stage mechanism that boosts both range and terminal speed.
• Range: 1,400 km, classifying it as a medium-range missile.
• Speed: Capable of reaching Mach 13–15 (13 to 15 times the speed of sound).
• Fuel Type: Uses solid-fuel, enabling faster launch readiness and easier storage compared to liquid-fueled systems.
• Warhead Capability: Designed to carry multiple warhead types, potentially including nuclear payloads.
• Manoeuvrability: Its re-entry vehicle (final stage) is capable of mid-air flight path changes, enhancing its ability to bypass missile defence systems.

Key Technical Terms Explained:

• Range Categories:
  • Short-Range: Less than 1,000 km
  • Medium-Range: 1,000–3,000 km
  • Intermediate-Range: 3,000–5,500 km
  • Long-Range: Above 5,500 km
• Mach Number: A unit representing the speed of sound.
  • Mach 1 = 1,235 km/h at sea level.
• Solid-Fuel Propellant:
  • A pre-mixed, stable fuel that offers rapid launch capability and long shelf life.
• Two-Stage Propulsion:
  • The first stage launches the missile; the second stage boosts its velocity and range.
• Manoeuvrability:
  • The missile can adjust its path during re-entry, making it harder to intercept.
• Terminal Speed:
  • Refers to the maximum speed the missile achieves in its final descent towards the target.