Q: Is a missile a self-propelled precision-guided munition system, as opposed to an unguided self-propelled munition, referred to as a rocket? ¶
A: Yes, Missiles have four system components: targeting or missile guidance, flight system, engine, and warhead.
Q: Are missiles generally associated with land-attack operations? ¶
A: Yes, but also have an important role as anti-shipping weapons.
Q: Are missiles powered by an engine? ¶
A: Yes, and generally either a type of rocket engine or jet engine.
Q: Are missiles generally further divided into subsonic or supersonic weapons - supersonic weapons such as BrahMos are difficult to shoot down? ¶
A: Yes, and whereas subsonic weapons tend to be much lighter and cheaper allowing more to be fired.
Q: Are missiles being adapted for conventional roles? ¶
A: Yes, such as the Russian Iskander or the Chinese DF-21D anti-ship ballistic missile.
Q: Are missiles in service? ¶
A: Yes, such as MGM-140 ATACMS.
Q: Are missiles generally categorized by their launch platform and intended target? ¶
A: Yes.
Q: Is a missile "any thrown object"? ¶
A: Yes, such as objects thrown at players by rowdy spectators at a sporting event.
Q: Are missiles primarily surface-launched from mobile launchers? ¶
A: Yes, and silos, ships or submarines, with air launch being theoretically possible with a weapon such as the cancelled Skybolt missile.
Q: Are missiles often used for testing and training purposes? ¶
A: Yes.
Q: Are missiles largely used for land attack missions? ¶
A: Yes.
Q: Are missiles designed to be propelled during powered flight by chemical reactions inside a rocket engine? ¶
A: Yes, and jet engine, or other type of engine.