Cruise missile

Tomahawk Block IV cruise missile -crop

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Fieseler Fi-103

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Nirbhay missiles during Republic Day Parade 2018

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Cruise missile is a guided missile used primarily for hitting specific terrestrial targets, which remains in the atmosphere and flies the major portion of its flight path at approximately constant speed. Cruise missiles are designed to deliver a large warhead over long distances with high precision. Modern cruise missiles are capable of traveling at supersonic or high subsonic speeds, are self-navigating, and are able to fly on a non-ballistic, extremely low-altitude trajectory.

Development and History

The development of the cruise missile can be traced back to the interwar period, with the earliest concepts emerging in the 1930s. The V-1 flying bomb developed by Nazi Germany during World War II is considered one of the earliest precursors of modern cruise missiles. After the war, both the United States and the Soviet Union invested heavily in the development of cruise missiles as part of their Cold War military strategy. The technology evolved from slow, long-range, jet-powered cruise missiles to today's supersonic and even hypersonic missiles capable of evading radar detection and anti-missile defenses.

Design and Features

Cruise missiles have several key components: a guidance system, an engine (usually a jet engine), a warhead, and a flight system. The guidance system can include GPS, inertial navigation, terrain contour matching (TERCOM), and digital scene-mapping area correlator (DSMAC) to improve accuracy. The engine type is typically a turbofan for subsonic missiles or a ramjet for supersonic missiles. The warhead can vary in size and type, including conventional, nuclear, or even chemical and biological warheads.

Operational Use

Cruise missiles are used by the navy, air force, and army of various countries. They can be launched from aircraft (ALCM), submarines (SLCM), surface ships (SLCM), and land-based platforms (GLCM). Their versatility and ability to penetrate enemy defenses by flying at low altitudes make them a critical component of modern military operations.

Strategic Importance

The strategic importance of cruise missiles lies in their ability to strike high-value targets with minimal collateral damage and their capability to be deployed stealthily and with precision. They are a key asset in deterrence strategies and power projection, allowing states to engage targets at long ranges without the need for direct conflict.

Controversies and Challenges

The proliferation of cruise missile technology poses significant challenges to global security. Their ability to carry nuclear and other types of mass destruction warheads makes them a focal point in arms control discussions. Additionally, the development of countermeasures and anti-cruise missile defenses remains a high priority for many nations.

Future Developments

Advancements in technology are expected to lead to faster, more stealthy, and more accurate cruise missiles. Hypersonic cruise missiles, capable of traveling at speeds greater than Mach 5, are currently under development. These missiles would significantly reduce the time defenses have to react, potentially changing the landscape of military strategy.