Missile classifications

Missile systems, in the meaning given in [missile], have been classified based on a wide variety of properties, including: flight path type, range, launching platform, propulsion, warhead, and guidance system.

Flight path type

This is really if the weapon part follows a ballistic arc or not. Consequently there are only two categories:

• Ballistic missiles
• Cruise missiles

The name "cruise missile" is a historical artefact, invented much after the term ballistic missile was established. As technology developed it