Consider the following statements: 1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket- powered only in the initial phase of flight. 2. Agni-V is a medium- range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid- fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

QUESTION

Easy

Science & Technology

Prelims 2023

Consider the following statements:

Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket- powered only in the initial phase of flight.
Agni-V is a medium- range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid- fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Select an option to attempt

Explanation

Neither of the statements about ballistic missiles and cruise missiles is accurate.
Ballistic missiles: These are rocket-powered weapons that follow a high, arcing trajectory after a brief powered ascent. They travel at supersonic speeds throughout most of their flight due to inertia.
Cruise missiles: These are jet-propelled weapons that fly at relatively low altitudes and can manoeuvre throughout their flight path. They can be subsonic, supersonic, or hypersonic depending on the design.
Agni-V: This is a long-range intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) developed by India. It is not a medium-range cruise missile.
BrahMos: This is a supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia. It is not a solid-fueled ICBM. BrahMos uses a ramjet engine for sustained supersonic flight after a booster rocket launch.