Consider the following statements:
1. Ballistic missiles remain within the atmosphere for the duration of their flight and can fly as low as a few meters off the ground.
2. Ballistic missiles follow an unpowered trajectory that arches upwards before descending to reach its intended target.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 and 2

Question

Consider the following statements:
1. Ballistic missiles remain within the atmosphere for the duration of their flight and can fly as low as a few meters off the ground.
2. Ballistic missiles follow an unpowered trajectory that arches upwards before descending to reach its intended target.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 and 2

ONLiNE UPSC · Accepted Answer

Statement 1 is not correct: Cruise missiles, not ballistic missiles, remain within the atmosphere for the entire flight and can fly low to the ground. They are self-guided and use various navigation systems to reach their targets.

Statement 2 is correct: Ballistic missiles follow an unpowered, parabolic trajectory. Initially powered by rockets, they ascend, then descend toward their target. The flight has three phases: Boost (powered), Midcourse (unpowered), and Terminal (re-entry and impact).

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M Question 1	⏱ 0
Consider the following statements: 1. Ballistic missiles remain within the atmosphere for the duration of their flight and can fly as low as a few meters off the ground. 2. Ballistic missiles follow an unpowered trajectory that arches upwards before descending to reach its intended target. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 and 2