A ballistic missile is a type of missile that uses projectile motion to deliver warheads on a target. These weapons are powered only during relatively brief periods—most of the flight is unpowered. Ballistic missiles can be launched from fixed sites or mobile launchers, including vehicles, aircraft, ships, and submarines. The powered flight portion can last from a few tenths of seconds to several minutes and can consist of multiple rocket stages. Ballistic missiles vary widely in range and use, and are often divided into categories based on range. Various schemes are used by different countries to categorize the ranges of ballistic missiles:

• Air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM)
• Tactical ballistic missile: Range from about 150 to 300 kilometres (93 to 186 mi)
• Theatre ballistic missile (TBM): Range from 300 to 3,500 kilometres (190 to 2,170 mi)
• Short-range ballistic missile (SRBM): Range from 300 to 1,000 kilometres (190 to 620 mi)
• Medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM): Range from 1,000 to 3,000 kilometres (620 to 1,864 mi)
• Intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM): Range from 3,000 to 5,500 kilometres (1,864 to 3,418 mi)
• Intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM): Range greater than 5,500 kilometres (3,418 mi)

Ballistic missiles can carry conventional high explosives as well as chemical, biological, or nuclear munitions. They are often used to deliver nuclear or conventional weapons. Ballistic missiles have been used in several recent conflicts, including the Iran-Iraq War, the Afghan Civil War, the war in Yemen, and the 1991 Persian Gulf War. Over 25 countries have ballistic missile systems, and it is likely that missiles will be a threat in future conflicts involving US forces.