Lesson for China? Iran’s low-cost 358 missile takes out million-dollar US assets
South China Morning Post • • world
Key Points:
- Iran’s 358 loitering munition, also called the SA-67, has gained attention for its effectiveness in destroying costly US-made drones in the Middle East.
- The missile weighs approximately 50kg and is powered by a micro-turbojet and solid rocket booster, allowing it to cruise subsonically at Mach 0.6 over distances of 100-150km.
- It uses an infrared seeker for targeting, which differentiates it from conventional surface-to-air missiles that typically exceed Mach 3 in speed.
- Despite its slower speed making it unsuitable for engaging jet-powered aircraft, the 358 missile offers unique tactical advantages, as noted by Chinese military analyst Zhang Xuefeng.
