👉 In military contexts, missiles are guided or unguided projectiles designed to deliver a payload, typically a warhead, to a specific target at a considerable distance. They can be broadly categorized into ballistic missiles, which follow a curved trajectory due to Earth's gravity and are launched without guidance systems, and cruise missiles, which use onboard navigation systems to maintain a straight path. Additionally, there are air-launched missiles that are carried by aircraft and land-sea missiles launched from ships. These missiles serve various purposes, including strategic deterrence, tactical strikes, and reconnaissance, making them a crucial component of modern military arsenals.
