In the world of military technology, missiles are the most potent weapons for any country. With their ability to hit Targets from a distance, they are capable of causing significant damage to an enemy’s infrastructure and population.
However, when it comes to choosing between cruise missiles and ballistic missiles, which one is better? Let’s take a closer look.
What is a Cruise Missile?
A cruise missile is an unmanned, self-propelled weapon that can travel at low altitudes using GPS or other navigation systems. It can be guided to its Target with great precision and accuracy. Typically, cruise missiles fly at low altitudes, making them difficult to detect by radar.
What is a Ballistic Missile?
A ballistic missile is a missile that follows a parabolic trajectory after being launched into the air. Unlike cruise missiles, these missiles cannot be controlled once they are launched. They are only guided during the initial phase of their launch and then follow their trajectory until they hit their Target.
The Advantages of Cruise Missiles
Cruise missiles have several advantages over ballistic missiles. Here are some of them:
- Accuracy: Cruise missiles have a high degree of accuracy in hitting their Targets.
- Stealth: These weapons fly at low altitudes and can evade detection by radar systems.
- Versatility: Cruise missiles can be designed for various types of Targets such as ships, buildings or vehicles.
- Fewer Civilian Casualties: Because cruise missiles can be guided with great precision, there is less chance of civilian casualties.
The Advantages of Ballistic Missiles
Ballistic Missiles also provide various advantages over Cruise Missiles:
- Range: Ballistic missiles have a longer range than cruise missiles and can travel greater distances.
- Speed: These missiles travel at much higher speeds than cruise missiles making them difficult to intercept by anti-missile defense systems.
- Cost Effectiveness: Ballistic Missiles are relatively cheaper to produce as compared to Cruise Missiles.
Which is Better?
The answer to this question depends on the strategic objectives of the country that is using them. Cruise missiles are better suited for surgical strikes on specific Targets, while ballistic missiles are more effective when Targeting larger areas.
Ultimately, both types of missiles have their advantages and disadvantages. It is up to military strategists to decide which type of missile is best suited for a particular mission or objective.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, the choice between cruise and ballistic missiles depends on the specific needs of the military. Both types of weapons have their strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately a decision must be made based on the mission’s objectives.