This paper is intended as an introduction to basic concepts of missile technology, which will allow readers to better understand the threat potential of a ballistic-missile system by applying basic analysis methods. This increased understanding may support policymakers in decision-making processes concerning ballistic-missile threats.
Ballistic missiles are viewed by many states as a means to project power regionally and in some cases globally, and they are an important element in many national deterrence doctrines. Ballistic missiles are not a new phenomenon, but the diffusion of the technological equipment and the technical knowledge to develop them has meant that more states than ever now operate them. Correspondingly, improvements in the guidance technology used in many modern missiles to facilitate their employment in conventional precision strikes mean that ballistic missiles are no longer only suitable for the delivery of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). Improvements in the accuracy and availability of ballistic missiles have driven their utility, which might in turn spur their utilisation given that they pose a low risk to service personnel and provide an opportunity to fulfil military or political objectives. Understandably, specialists and policymakers working in the field of arms control and technologies are increasingly focused on identifying and assessing these capabilities and their possible implications.
This technical analysis will provide specialists and policymakers with a beneficial understanding of the technology that underpins and influences ballistic-missile design. Additionally, this paper will provide analysts with tools that can be applied to examine and draw initial conclusions about a ballistic missile’s capabilities, using the increasing amount of open-source material available on ballistic missiles. This should benefit the quality of debate, provide a better understanding of missile technology and give those interested a simple method of conducting an initial missile analysis.
Missile Identification and Assessment
Ballistic missiles are viewed by many states as a means to project power and are an important element in many national deterrence doctrines. Understandably, specialists and policymakers working in the field of arms control and technologies are increasingly focused on identifying and assessing...
www.iiss.org
