👉 The term "missiles" refers to various types of weapons designed to launch projectiles over long distances, typically for military purposes. Historically, missile technology has evolved significantly. The earliest known ballistic missiles date back to the mid-20th century, with the Soviet Union launching Sputnik, the first artificial satellite, in 1957, which was a missile. The term "intercontinental ballistic missile" (ICBM) became prominent in the 1960s, referring to missiles capable of delivering nuclear warheads across continents. Notable milestones include the development of the U.S. Minuteman missile in the 1950s and the Soviet R-12 and R-17 missiles in the 1960s. Modern missiles can vary widely in range, from short-range tactical systems to long-range strategic ones, and are used for both military defense and offensive capabilities.
