UPSC Prelims 2023 · Question 88 of 97
UPSC Prelims 2023 question on Ballistic vs Cruise Missiles
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2023
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectScience and Technology
- TopicDefence Technology
- DifficultyMedium
- TypeStatement
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?
Show answer
Answer: D. Neither 1 nor 2
Analysis
Hence both statements are incorrect → Option (d) Neither 1 nor 2.
Statement by statement
Statement 1 – INCORRECT: A Cruise Missile is an unmanned self-propelled (till the time of impact) guided vehicle that sustains flight through aerodynamic lift for most of its flight path. They fly within the earth's atmosphere and use jet engine technology. A Ballistic Missile has a ballistic trajectory over most of its flight path, regardless of whether it is a weapon-delivery vehicle. It is powered by rockets initially but then follows an unpowered, free-falling trajectory toward their targets. So both statements in option 1 are reversed.
Statement 2 – INCORRECT: Agni-V is an intercontinental ballistic missile (not a cruise missile), and BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile (not a ballistic missile). Both classifications in statement 2 are wrong.
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