Katana VentraIP

Historically, 'missile' referred to any projectile that is thrown, shot or propelled towards a target; this usage is still recognized today with any unguided jet- or rocket-propelled weapons generally described as rocket artillery. Airborne explosive devices without propulsion are referred to as shells if fired by an artillery piece and bombs if dropped by an aircraft.[1]


Missiles are also generally guided towards specific targets termed as guided missiles or guided rockets. Missile systems usually have five system components: targeting, guidance system, flight system, engine, and warhead. Missiles are primarily classified into different types based on firing source and target such as surface-to-surface, air-to-surface, surface-to-air and air-to-air missiles.

Boost phase: First phase at launch when one or more stages of rocket engine(s) fire propelling the missile

Mid-course phase: Second phase when the rocket engines stop firing and the missile continues ascending upwards on the given trajectory

Terminal phase: Final phase when the warhead(s) detach and descend towards the target

Vertical launching system

Media related to Missile at Wikimedia Commons

Media related to Missiles at Wikimedia Commons