Iran tests missile, says it is for non-military purposes

TEHRAN, Iran - Iran has successfully test-fired its first solid-liquid fuel missile, the official Iranian news agency reported Thursday.

Defense Minister Vice Adm. Ali Shamkhani said the missile, the Shahab-3D, would be used for nonmilitary purposes, the Islamic Republic News Agency said.

The report said the missile was built by the national aerospace authority as part of a program for building rockets that could launch satellites.

Shamkani said Iran's defense industry did not produce offensive weapons, the agency added. He did not give the rocket's range or other details.

Iran has built and tested a number of missiles, including the Shabab-3 which has a range of 810 miles.