Missile

Bundesarchiv Bild 146-1975-117-26, Marschflugkörper V1 vor Start

Missile homing

Solid-Fuel Rocket Diagram

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Minuteman III MIRV path

Tomahawk Block IV cruise missile

Missile

A missile is a guided airborne ranged weapon capable of self-propelled flight usually by a jet engine or rocket engine. Missiles are used in military conflicts to destroy targets from a long distance, and they come in various forms including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and anti-aircraft missiles. The development and deployment of missiles have significantly impacted modern warfare, offering precision targeting and the ability to strike at the heart of enemy territory without risking manned aircraft.

History

The concept of missiles dates back to ancient times, with the use of propelled arrows and later, gunpowder rockets. However, the modern missile's development began in the early 20th century, notably with the German V-1 and V-2 rockets during World War II. These innovations laid the groundwork for the diverse range of missile systems seen today.

Types of Missiles

Missiles are classified based on their launch method, propulsion, range, and intended target. Key types include:

• Ballistic missiles: These are launched directly into the upper atmosphere or space in a high arc and fall towards the target due to gravity. They are further categorized by range into short-range, medium-range, intermediate-range, and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).
• Cruise missiles: Unlike ballistic missiles, cruise missiles remain in the atmosphere throughout their flight and are capable of maneuvering to reach their target. They are powered by jet engines.
• Anti-aircraft missiles: Designed to target and destroy aircraft, these missiles can be launched from the ground or from aircraft.
• Anti-ship missiles: These are specialized for targeting ships and boats.
• Surface-to-surface missiles (SSMs): These missiles are launched from the ground or sea and travel towards ground targets.

Guidance Systems

The accuracy of a missile is determined by its guidance system. Common guidance systems include:

• Inertial guidance: Uses internal gyroscopes and accelerometers to navigate towards the target.
• Radar guidance: Utilizes radar to track and guide the missile to its target.
• Infrared guidance: Seeks out the heat signature of the target.
• Laser guidance: A laser designator marks the target, and the missile follows the laser path.

Impact on Warfare

Missiles have transformed warfare by allowing for precise strikes over long distances, reducing the need for close combat and enabling strategies that prioritize air superiority and standoff capabilities. Their development has also spurred the creation of advanced defense systems, such as anti-ballistic missile (ABM) systems, to counteract missile threats.

Contemporary Issues

The proliferation of missile technology poses significant challenges to global security. Missile defense has become a critical area of military investment, leading to the development of systems like the Patriot missile system and the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system. Additionally, international treaties and agreements, such as the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty), have been established to control the deployment of certain types of missiles.