SHARE Iran’s scientists have “solved one half of the ballistic missile puzzle” by developing a workable third-stage rocket booster, leading defence analysts said. The stakes for a nuclear stand-off were raised after Tehran launched a satellite rocket that could easily be converted into a nuclear missile with a range of about 5,000 kilometres, bringing cities such as London within reach. Missile experts believe it is now clear Iran is opting for “range over accuracy” in seeking to develop nuclear-tipped intermediate-range ballistic missiles, a strategy that has also been followed by Iran’s ally North Korea. The worrying Iranian advances are likely to feature in negotiations over its nuclear programme with US President Joe Biden’s administration.