Question

UPSC Prelims 2023 Question:

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?

 

  1. 1. 1 only
  2. 2. 2 only
  3. 3. Both 1 and 2
  4. 4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4: Neither 1 nor 2

Detailed Solution

Explanation:

  • Cruise missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while ballistic missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial (boost) phase of flight, after which they follow an arcing trajectory to the target. So, statement 1 is not correct.

  • The Agni-V is an Indian intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with a range of over 5,000 km. BrahMos is a universal long-range supersonic cruise missile system that can be launched from land, sea and air. BRAHMOS has been jointly developed by DRDO, India, and NPOM, Russia. So, statement 2 is not correct.

Therefore, option (4) is the correct answer. 

Subject: Science & Technology | Space and Related Developments

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