What is a Cruise Missile?
A cruise missile is a guided missile that flies within the atmosphere, remains powered throughout its flight, and uses aerodynamic lift like an aircraft to accurately strike targets.
Key Characteristics
Low-altitude, terrain-hugging flight
Powered for entire duration
High accuracy (precision-guided)
Difficult to detect by radar
Can carry conventional or nuclear warheads
Flight Phases
Launch phase – booster separates
Cruise phase – jet/ramjet propulsion
Terminal phase – precision strike
Types of Cruise Missiles
🔹 Based on Speed
Type
Speed
Subsonic
Mach 5
🔹 Based on Launch Platform
Land-attack cruise missiles (LACM)
Sea-launched cruise missiles (SLCM)
Air-launched cruise missiles (ALCM)
Cruise Missiles of India
🔶 BrahMos
Joint India-Russia venture
Supersonic (Mach ~3)
Range: ~450 km
Land, sea & air-launched
Highly precise & fast strike capability
🔶 Nirbhay
Subsonic, long-range
Terrain-hugging capability
Indigenous development
Cruise Missile vs Ballistic Missile
Cruise Missile
Ballistic Missile
Atmospheric flight
Exo-atmospheric
Powered throughout
Powered only initially
High accuracy
Very high speed
Tactical & strategic
Primarily strategic
Strategic Importance
Enables precision strikes
Effective against high-value targets
Reduces collateral damage
Enhances deterrence without nuclear escalation
Key component of conventional deterrence
