Iran has started large-scale production of a domestically-developed cruise missile designed for sea-based targets and capable of destroying warships

Iran has started on Wednesday to equip its navy and the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) with large-scale production of a domestically-developed cruise missile designed for sea-based targets and capable of destroying warships.

The cruise missile dubbed Qader (Capable) has a range of more than 200 kilometers. It has been hailed as a projectile undetectable by the most advanced radar systems and one of a destructive power enough to sink any large battleship. The missile was originally unveiled during a ceremony joined by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in late August.

Defense Minister Gen. Ahmad Vahidi said an unspecified number of samples of Qader were delivered to the Revolutionary Guard's navy, assigned to protect Iran's sea borders. His remarks were reported by state TV on Wednesday.

The missile, which owes its design, manufacturing and mass production all to Iranian experts, can function as a surface-to-sea, air-to-sea, and sea-to-sea projectile and can be used against large battleships and aircraft carriers, as well as coastal facilities.

The intelligent missile is also fitted with digital autopilot option and anti-jamming radar technology and is capable of detecting and hitting targets at low depths, according to Press TV.

Iran's high ranking military officials say that only a few countries enjoy the know-how and technology to produce such hardware, while defining the Islamic Republic as the only country in the region with such expertise.

On Tuesday, the French envoy to the UN warned Iran on that it risks a military strike if it continues to develop its nuclear program. Ambassador Gerard Araud said in New York that "If we don't succeed today to reach a negotiation with the Iranians, there is a strong risk of military action," AFP reported. The strike, he said, "would be a very complicated operation. It would have disastrous consequences in the region… all the Arab countries are extremely worried about what is happening."