Iran launched the warship cannon production line on Sunday to be used as anti-cruise missile, the semi-official Fars news agency reported.

"The Fath (victory) 40-millimetre naval cannon has the optimal range of 12 kilometers (more than seven miles) and shoots 300 projectiles per minute and can be used against cruise missiles," Iran's defence Minister Mohammad Mostafa Najjar was quoted as saying by Fars.

"This weapon is an anti-aircraft low-altitude weapon and is used on warships," Najjar said.

On Wednesday, Iran successfully launched an advanced surface-to-surface missile with a range of about 2,000 km.

Islamic has already said that its attempts to gain high capabilities concerning the development of military technologies has only defensive purposes and will be utilized for peace and stability of the region.

Referring to a high ranking Iranian military official's statements that Israel's nuclear sites are within the reach of Iran 's missiles, the United States and its Western allies have been suspicious about the country's intentions.

The United States and its allies, including Israel, have also accused Iran of trying to develop nuclear weapons under the cover of a civilian nuclear program.

However, Iran insists that its nuclear plan is only for peaceful purposes, and continues its uranium enrichment activity despite pressure from the western countries and relevant resolutions and sanctions of the United Nations.

Source:Xinhua