ICBM (Intercontinental Ballistic Missile)

An ICBM, or Intercontinental Ballistic Missile, is a powerful missile designed to travel long distances—typically over 5,500 miles—to deliver a nuclear or conventional warhead. It launches from land-based silos and follows a ballistic trajectory, initially guided during the boost phase and then traveling through space before re-entering the atmosphere to strike its target. ICBMs are a key component of nuclear deterrence because of their ability to reach targets across continents quickly and accurately, making them a central element of strategic military planning among major nations.