Defense Minister-Designate Says Iran To Focus On Missiles

23 August 2005 (RFE/RL) -- The man nominated to be Iran's defense minister today outlined the development of air defenses and ballistic missiles as the main priorities of the Islamic republic's defense industries.

In a confirmation hearing before parliament, Mostafa Mohammad Najjar also said the development of modern ammunitions and equipment for electronic warfare were priorities for the defense sector.

Iran said it achieved a major breakthrough in May when it successfully tested a new solid-fuel motor for its medium-range ballistic missiles.

The Iranian parliament has since 21 August been hearing from each member of President Mahmud Ahmadinejad's cabinet.

(AFP)

For RFE/RL's complete coverage of the controversy surrounding Iran's nuclear program, see "Iran's Nuclear Program."