
Ballistic Missile
The purpose of ballistic missiles is long-range combat. They have a 1000-kilometer minimum range. These missiles first leave the Earth's atmosphere after launch, and then gravity pulls them in the direction of their target. As they approach the target, they move at a very high speed. Five times the speed of sound, or Mach 5, is within their reach (6174 km/h).
Both conventional and nuclear weapons can be carried by ballistic missiles. Among the most potent and hazardous ballistic missiles in the world are the American Minuteman III, Russia's SS-26 Iskander, and India's Agni-V.
Hypersonic Missile
Missiles that strike at a speed five times faster than sound, or Mach 5, are known as hypersonic missiles. They are incredibly hard to intercept. Hypersonic missiles have a maximum range of 5000 kilometers. The enemy cannot identify and destroy these missiles because they fly low and strike so quickly.
Both conventional and nuclear warheads can be carried by hypersonic missiles. They avoid defense systems because of their speed. fighter aircraft are also capable of firing hypersonic missiles. However, only a few nations worldwide possess these missiles due to the complexity of hypersonic technology. Additionally, india is producing its own hypersonic missiles.
Cruise Missile
Jet engines are used to power these missiles. They don't fly very high. The most hazardous weapons for destroying short-range targets are cruise missiles. They can hit anywhere between 200 and 1000 kilometers away. In the ocean, cruise missiles are also used to kill enemy warships.
Conventional and nuclear weapons can also be fired from cruise missiles. Their strike is the most accurate since they have navigation systems. The world's most lethal cruise missiles include Russia's Kalibr, America's Tomahawk, and India's Brahmos.
Used for Different purposes
The functions of ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles vary. Ballistic missiles have an extremely long range of impact. Because of their extreme speed, hypersonic missiles are nearly impossible to stop. Accuracy is a hallmark of cruise missiles.