The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) tested a solid-fuel space rocket engine on January 13, according to the commander of the IRGC Aerospace Force. According to Hajizadeh, the satellite carrier was constructed out of a composite material lighter than metal, which would enable the engine to launch heavier payloads into orbit. Footage shows that the test took place on the ground. Satellite carriers usually use liquid fuel, whereas solid fuel is more often associated with ballistic missiles.