Published on Jun 05, 2023
Presently there are many types of guided missiles. They can be broadly classified on the basis of their features such as type of target, method of launching, range, launch platform, propulsion or guidance and tye of trajectory.
On the basis of target they are classified as Antitank/ Antiarmour, Antipersonnel, Antiaircraft, Antiship/ Antisubmarine, Antisatallites or Antimissiles.Another classification of missiles which depends upon the method of launching. They are surface- to- surface Missiles [ SSM], Surface-to-Air Missiles [SAM], Air -to-Air Missiles [AAM] and Air- to- Surface Missiles.
Surface- to - Surface Missiles are common Ground-to-Ground ones. Although these may be launched from a ship to another ship. Under water weapons, which are launched from a submarine, also come under this classification.Surface-to-Air Missiles ar3 essential complaint of modern air defence systems along with Antiaircraft guns which are used against hostile aircrafts. Air-to-air Missiles are for air born battle among fighter or bomber aircraft. These are usually mounted under the wings of the aircraft and are fired against the target.
The computer and radar networks control these missiles.On the basis of range, missiles can be broadly classified as short range missiles, medium range missiles, intermediate range missiles and long range missiles. These classifications is mainly used in the care of SSM missiles which travel a distance of about a distance of about 50 to 100 km. Are designated as short range missiles. Those with a range of 100 to 1500 km. Are called medium range missiles and missiles having a range up to 5000 km. Are said to be intermediate- range missiles.
Missiles, which travel a distance of 12000 km, are called long-range missiles.On the basis of launch platform missiles can be termed as shoulder fired, Land/ Mobile fired, Aircraft/ Helicopter borne, Ship/ submarine- launched.
