How Does A Ballistic Missile Function?

The function of a ballistic missile can be sub-divided primarily into three stages or phases –

• Boost phase
• Cruise phase
• Termination phase

The detonation of the missile's booster rocket initiates the boost phase. The booster rocket launches the missile at a steep angle which actually induces a high speed to the payload before it burns out. The cruise phase is initiated with the detachment of booster and payload. The used-up booster comes back to the earth as a result of gravitational force, whereas the payload continues its journey with a decrease in speed and a gaining altitude. In the case of long range missile the payload then arcs down due to aerodynamics and gravitational force. The payload may contain a single warhead or a group of warheads attached to it. The warheads may explode above the target or on the target area by striking the ground. The boosters may carry different stages, that is, independent rockets stacked to form a combined one. The advantage of a staged rocket is that it may burn to gain high speed and altitude as it enables the burning and dropping technique. The missiles may have one-stage, two-stage or three-stage functionality. The more are the number of stages, the longer the range of the missile.