👉 Missiles are advanced military systems designed for long-range, often intercontinental, ballistic or guided attacks, capable of delivering a variety of payloads including nuclear warheads. They typically consist of a missile body housing the propulsion system, guidance mechanisms, and sometimes a warhead, along with a launch vehicle that propels the missile into space. Missiles can be classified based on their guidance systems—non-guided (e.g., cruise missiles) and guided (e.g., ballistic missiles, cruise missiles with guidance)—each offering different ranges and precision capabilities. Modern missile technology includes multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), which allow a single missile to carry multiple warheads, enhancing strategic deterrence and offensive potential.
