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ICBMs are long-range explosive devices capable of crossing oceans and continents, with most major world powers having the capability to launch them. They are highly destructive and armed with nuclear warheads, only launched under extreme circumstances. The technology is sophisticated, with a guidance system and the ability to break into multiple bombs. ICBMs can also be launched from submarines and ships, and shorter-range ballistic missiles are cause for concern. ICBMs can also be used to launch satellites and are routinely tested without explosives.
An intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) is a long-range explosive device with the potential to cross oceans and continents. Many major world powers, including all members of the United Nations Security Council, have the capability to launch ICBMs. Because these weapons are often armed with nuclear warheads, they are highly destructive and would only be launched under extreme circumstances when other means have failed. Most nations have monitoring systems in place to detect the presence of ICBMs in the airspace, and some countries have even attempted to design systems that could neutralize these missiles.
The first ICBM appears to have been developed by the Soviet Union during the Cold War, and powers like the United States and China quickly followed suit once the Russians demonstrated the technology. ICBMs were a big problem in the Cold War, as participating nations were understandably concerned about missile launches that could threaten major cities. Some politicians have argued that the proliferation of ICBM technology during the Cold War actually acted as a deterrent, under the doctrine of mutual assured destruction, which states that the use of nuclear weapons by a major power will result in that power’s destruction for retaliation.
The technology that drives ICBMs is actually quite sophisticated, considering that they are designed to detonate on impact. In addition to being packed with explosive material, an ICBM also has a guidance system. The launching nation can enter a final destination and the ICBM will correct its course during flight to ensure it hits the correct target. Some ICBMs are also capable of breaking into multiple bombs for more extensive damage. Because an ICBM has a long range, the device can be used to attack a nation from a safe distance, an attractive method of warfare for many nations.
Ballistic missiles can also be launched from submarines and some ships. Several nations have also developed shorter-range ballistic missiles, which may be called medium- or short-range ballistic missiles, depending on how much ground they can cover. These missiles are often developed early in a nation’s ballistic missile program, and the launch of such a missile is generally seen as a cause for concern, as it indicates that a nation is developing the technology to create ICBMs.
Besides being used to wreak havoc on opposing nations, an ICBM can also be used for the purpose of launching satellites. The Soviet satellite Sputnik was launched in 1957 using Russian ICBM technology, for example. The launch of Sputnik sparked mass panic among Western nations, as it was a decisive demonstration of Russia’s aerospace might. ICBMs are also routinely tested without explosives to ensure they are firing correctly and to refine guidance systems; people living near military bases may have noticed ICBM launches.
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