What is a ballistic missile?
A ballistic missile follows a ballistic trajectory, hence the name. Ballistic trajectory or projectile motion is motion experienced by a particle or an object that is projected near the surface of Earth and moves along a curved path under the influence of gravity.
The missile follows the trajectory to deliver warheads on a predetermined target. These missiles are, for the most part of their journey, unpowered and are guided only during relatively brief periods. SRBMs follow a path, which stays within Earth’s atmosphere, while intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) are launched on a sub-orbital trajectory. ICBMs have a minimum range of 5,500 km and are primarily designed for delivery of nuclear warheads. These weapons are in a different category compared to cruise missiles which are aerodynamically guided in a powered flight.
The first modern ballistic missile was developed by Nazi Germany in the 1930s and 1940s. Nazis carried out the first successful launch of V-2 ballistic missile on October 3, 1942. It was first used in operation against Paris in September 1944. The first intercontinental ballistic missile is R-7 Semyorka developed by the Soviets during the Cold War.
Indian SRBMs
Over the years, India’s missile programme has developed various missiles successfully. At present, India has a total of 8 SRBMs, some of which are under development.
Agni-I: This missile has a range of 700-900 km
K-15: This has a range of 750 km
Prithvi I: It has a range of 150 km
Prithvi II: Has a range of 250-350 km
Prithvi III: Gives a range of 350-750 km
Prahaar: Has a range of 150 km and is expected to replace Prithvi I
Shaurya: Gives a range of 700 km
Pralay: Has a range of 350-500 km
