(VOVworld) - Iran will enhance its missile capability despite new US sanctions aimed at curbing its defensive weapons.

A handout picture shows a ballistic missile being launched during a test in Iran's undisclosed location. (Photo: AFP)

The announcement, by Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Hossein Jaber Ansari on Thursday, followed the US Treasury Department’s blacklisting of 2 Iranian companies who were accused of funding Iran’s ballistic missiles tests. Ansari told reporters that Iran would respond to any US measures against Iran’s defense program by boosting its missile strength. Tehran's defense capabilities are a key factor in restoring stability and security to the region, he said, adding that the Iranian missile program "is totally for peaceful purposes”, including protecting Iran’s sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as combating terrorism and extremism. Therefore no measures can strip Iran its legitimate and legal right to boost its defensive capabilities and safeguard national security.

2 Iranian companies, Shahid Nuri and Shahid Movahed of Shahid Hemmat Industrial Group, were targeted by the US Treasury Department.