Intermediate-range ballistic missile facts for kids
An intermediate-range ballistic missile (often called an IRBM) is a special type of ballistic missile. Think of it like a very powerful rocket that can travel a long distance. Its range is between 3,000 and 5,500 kilometers (about 1,864 to 3,418 miles). This distance is longer than a medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) but shorter than an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).
Currently, only a few countries have IRBMs. These include the People's Republic of China, India, Israel, and North Korea.
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How Do Ballistic Missiles Work?
A ballistic missile is like a very advanced rocket. It uses powerful engines to launch itself into the sky. Once it reaches a certain height and speed, the engines shut off. From that point, the missile continues its journey through space. It follows a path shaped like an arc, similar to how a thrown baseball flies. This path is called a "ballistic trajectory."
The Journey of a Missile
The missile then falls back to Earth due to gravity. It aims for a specific target on the ground. Because it travels so high and fast, it can be very difficult to stop. The "range" of a missile means how far it can travel from its launch point to its target.
Different Types of Ballistic Missiles
Missiles are often grouped by how far they can travel.
- Short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) travel up to 1,000 kilometers.
- Medium-range ballistic missiles (MRBMs) can travel between 1,000 and 3,000 kilometers.
- Intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs) travel between 3,000 and 5,500 kilometers. This is the type we are talking about.
- Intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) can travel over 5,500 kilometers. They can even fly from one continent to another!
Why Are Ranges Important?
The range of a missile is very important. It determines which targets a country can reach. For example, an IRBM can reach targets that are too far for an MRBM. But it cannot reach targets as far away as an ICBM. This difference in range affects military strategies around the world.
Countries with IRBMs Today
Only a few nations currently have intermediate-range ballistic missiles.
- China: The People's Republic of China has developed several types of IRBMs. They are an important part of China's defense.
- India: India also has its own IRBMs. These missiles help protect India's national security.
- Israel: Israel is another country known to have IRBMs.
- North Korea: North Korea has been working on its missile programs, including IRBMs.
These missiles are a serious part of modern military power. Countries develop them for defense and to show their strength.
Images for kids
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IRBM and MRBM missiles.
See also
In Spanish: Misil balístico de alcance intermedio para niños
