About Ballistic Missile

A ballistic missile is a rocket-propelled, self-guided strategic-weapons system that follows a ballistic trajectory to deliver a payload from its launch site to a predetermined target.

• Phases: A Ballistic missile follows a ballistic flight path which comprises three phases of flight: 
  • First or the Boost Phase: The solid-fuel rocket engine propels the missile upward, requiring it to swiftly attain velocity and altitude as it penetrates through the dense layers of Earth’s atmosphere. 
  • Second or the Unpowered Phase: It happens in the upper reaches of the earth’s atmosphere or in space, where the missile travels along its pre-determined path, but without the power of its engines. 
    • It is known as the coast phase or mid-course phase and during this time, it travels along a horizontal path. 
  • Third or the Terminal Phase: The missile descends and gets back into the earth’s atmosphere and flies towards its target, while being guided by its on-board systems.
• General Classification:
  • Short-Range: Less than 1,000 kilometers, also known as “tactical” ballistic missiles.
  • Medium-Range: Between 1,000 and 3,000 kilometers, also known as “theater” ballistic missiles.
  • Intermediate-Range: Between 3,000 and 5,500 kilometers
  • Long-Range: More than 5,500 kilometers, also known as intercontinental or strategic ballistic missiles