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58

Question 58

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?

AOptions

A
A) 1 only
B
B) 2 only
C
C) Both 1 and 2
D
D) Neither 1 nor 2

BSolution

Let's analyze each statement regarding missiles:

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.

  • Ballistic missiles: This part is incorrect. Ballistic missiles are typically rocket-powered during an initial boost phase, then follow a unpowered, parabolic (ballistic) trajectory guided by gravity and aerodynamics. They achieve very high, often hypersonic, speeds (much faster than subsonic) during their flight. They are not jet-propelled throughout.
  • Cruise missiles: This part is also incorrect. Cruise missiles are jet-propelled (using engines like turbofans or ramjets) and fly at relatively constant altitudes, often guided throughout their flight. While some may use a solid rocket booster for launch, their primary propulsion is usually continuous jet propulsion, not just rocket-powered in the initial phase. They can be subsonic, supersonic, or hypersonic.

Therefore, Statement 1 is incorrect.

2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.

  • Agni-V: This part is incorrect. Agni-V is an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) developed by India, designed to deliver nuclear warheads. It is a long-range ballistic missile, not a medium-range supersonic cruise missile.
  • BrahMos: This part is also incorrect. BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile (a joint venture between India and Russia). It is not a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile. It is powered by a ramjet engine for supersonic flight.

Therefore, Statement 2 is incorrect.

Since both statements are incorrect, the correct option is 'Neither 1 nor 2'.

Diagram for Q58

CStrategy

For questions on defence technology, especially types of missiles, it's crucial to understand the fundamental differences in their propulsion, trajectory, and range. Memorize the basic classifications (ballistic vs. cruise) and key examples from India's defence arsenal. Misinformation is often created by swapping characteristics between different types.

DSyllabus Analysis

This question falls under 'Science and Technology - Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life' and 'Defence Technology' in the UPSC Prelims syllabus.

EQuestion Analysis

Medium to Difficult. Requires precise knowledge of missile classifications and specific Indian missile systems.