Missile technology has become a defining factor in modern military strength, serving both as a powerful deterrent and a tactical weapon. While the United States, Russia, and China have historically dominated the field with vast nuclear arsenals and cutting-edge hypersonic programs, other nations such as India, North Korea, France, and Israel have also made significant advances.
Russia: Hypersonic Supremacy
Russia possesses the world’s largest nuclear arsenal and leads in hypersonic missile technology. Its Avangard glide vehicle can reach speeds of Mach 27, making it extremely difficult for current defense systems to intercept, according to the Russian Ministry of Defence.
United States: Precision and Global Reach
The United States has a highly advanced conventional missile arsenal. Precision weapons like the Tomahawk cruise missile are complemented by the Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW), capable of striking targets up to 2,700 kilometres away with remarkable accuracy.
China: Anti-Access and Carrier-Killer Missiles
China has developed missiles designed to neutralize naval threats, particularly aircraft carriers. The DF-21D and DF-26 are the world’s first anti-ship ballistic missiles, capable of hitting moving carriers from thousands of kilometres inland, according to the US Department of Defense.
India: Strategic Deterrent with Agni-V
India’s Agni-V intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) strengthens its nuclear deterrent with a range exceeding 5,000 kilometres. Developed by DRDO, this solid-fuel missile brings major global targets within India’s reach, establishing the country as a notable missile power.
North Korea: Expanding ICBM Reach
North Korea has achieved long-range ICBM capability, with missiles like the Hwasong-18 capable of exceeding 15,000 kilometres, putting the entire US mainland within range. KCNA reports the missile is solid-fueled and can carry a nuclear warhead.
France: Submarine-Launched Nuclear Deterrent
France maintains a robust sea-based nuclear capability with the M51 ballistic missile, deployed from Triomphant-class submarines. The latest M51.3 upgrade increases both range and accuracy, allowing France to project nuclear power from anywhere in the world’s oceans.
Israel: Offensive and Defensive Excellence
Israel has developed advanced missile systems for both attack and defense. Its Jericho III ballistic missile has a range of over 4,000 kilometres, while the Arrow-3 system can intercept ballistic threats outside Earth’s atmosphere, providing a strong strategic shield.
Missile technology continues to shape the global strategic landscape, with these nations at the forefront of innovation, deterrence, and power projection.
