The gap in the arms race has now narrowed. A handful of countries in the world have developed missile technology that can cover continental distances in a few minutes. These are called Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBM). These missiles can not only destroy the enemy sitting thousands of kilometers away, but are also adept at dodging modern defense systems. These missiles equipped with nuclear capability have today become the biggest basis of global politics and military balance.

Russia’s Doomsday Missile

Russia is currently considered to be the most powerful country in the world in terms of missile technology. Russia has RS-28 Sarmat, which is called ‘Doomsday Missile’. Its strike range is an incredible 18,000 kilometers, which means it can hit any corner of the earth. Apart from this, Russia also has a nuclear powered cruise missile named ‘Burevestnik’, whose range is considered unlimited. Russia’s RS-24 Yars missile is also capable of causing destruction up to a distance of 11,000 kilometers.

American Nuclear Triad and Minuteman Speed

The biggest pillar of America’s strategic strength is its ‘Minuteman III’ ballistic missile. This missile travels at an incredible speed of Mach 23 and is a key part of the American nuclear triad (land, air and water). Apart from this, America has missiles like ‘Trident II D5’ which are known to hit targets with extreme accuracy. America is constantly upgrading its technology, so that it can face any global challenge and maintain its military supremacy.

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China’s DF-41 and global reach

China has made unprecedented growth in its missile capability in the last few decades. China’s ‘DF-41’ (Dongfeng-41) missile covers the entire world with a range of 12,000 to 15,000 kilometers. Along with this, China also has submarine launched missiles like ‘JL-3’, whose range is between 10,000 to 12,000 kilometers. These Chinese missiles are capable of carrying multiple warheads (MIRVs), due to which a single missile can destroy multiple cities or bases simultaneously.

naval power of britain and france

Britain and France are also among the few countries which have global firepower. Britain deploys ‘Trident II’ missiles on its nuclear submarines, which have a range of 12,000 kilometers. Being deployed on submarines, they can reach anywhere in the world. At the same time, France has ‘M-51’ missile which is launched from a submarine. This missile, with a range of more than 10,000 kilometers, gives France the power to intervene militarily in any part of the world.

North Korea’s growing threat and Hwasong missile

North Korea has surprised the world with its missile technology in recent years. North Korea’s ‘Hwasong-15’ ballistic missile has a range of 13,000 kilometers, which is enough to target the US mainland. However, North Korea does not have nuclear-powered submarines, so its missile reach is limited to land-based launch pads. Nevertheless, it is among the top six countries in the world that have long-range strike capability.

India’s Agni-5 and strategic dominance

India has emerged as the seventh largest missile power in the world. India’s ‘Agni-5’ missile is included in the world’s top-10 ICBM category. Its range is between 7,000 and 8,000 kilometers, covering almost the entire Asia and large parts of Europe. India has developed this range specifically for the security and strategic balance of its borders. Due to the road-mobile launch system, it can be launched anywhere, which further strengthens India’s counter-attack capability.

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