Ballistic Missile Defense
(BMD)
Description
Ballistic Missile Defense: Keeping the Sky Safe from Threats
In today’s global village, from a distance of thousands of kilometers, danger originates; hence, protection of people; and infrastructure becomes more important. The major security threat is the ballistic missile attack. Some of these missiles may carry bombs or even nuclear warheads, causing immense and immeasurable damage within minutes. To defend themselves against such threats, countries use a Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) system.
What is a missile that goes ballistic?
So, let’s first learn what a ballistic missile is before we talk about BMD.
It’s like the weapon’s fired into the air where it goes far beyond Earth atmosphere most of the time it’s in the air before dropping back down to hit its target. Like a ball thrown into the air, these missiles follow a curved path called a ballistic trajectory.
Some can travel thousands of kilometers and hit their mark within half an hour of launch, carrying anything from nuclear or chemical to just regular warheads. They are extremely dangerous.
Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD)
A system that locates tracks, acquires, intercepts, and then defeats incoming ballistic missiles before they reach the target. Acts as a protective wall in the atmosphere by stopping a missile in mid-air and not allowing it to reach the ground and cause loss of life.
One BMD system includes several different components. These parts are radars, sensors, command centers, and interceptor missiles.
What BMD Does: The 3 Steps of Anti-Missile Defense: Tracking and Then Engaging
When the missile is fired, satellites and radars immediately capture it. They monitor the speed, the direction, and the target of the missile.
Command and Control: As soon as the missile is detected, defence control centres quickly assess the level of threat, make a decision on whether to intercept the missile and which interception system to use.
Terminal – when the missile has entered the atmosphere, the terminal endgame interceptor is fired
Long Range – initiated before reentry
Mid Course – starts in space or during reentry; mid course interception
Boost Phase Interception
Interception during the boost phase is the most difficult. The booster period is very critical for intercept since it is very fast and takes place near friendly lines.
Midcourse Interception
At this time, the missile is in outer space. It is favorable that it be intercepted at this time because there will be ample time to track and shoot at the missile.
This is the last requirement before the missile warhead impacts its target. BMD systems can attempt interception at this time.
Why Should Countries Be Protected from Ballistic Missiles?
BMD stops attack within cities, military bases, and/or important government buildings.
Reduction of the Nuclear War Threat: These BMD systems contribute to the reduction of the nuclear war threat because they intercept missiles that carry nuclear warheads.
It will make the countries feel much secure and thereby bring about peace and improved relations among countries because they are very friendly systems to have around.
They Provide Strategic Defense: It provides strategic defense since a country is provided with the capability to defend itself without having to strike first.
BMD systems examples from different parts of the world
Aegis, THAAD, Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) mainly in the United States.
The U.S. has several ways to make sure that it and its allies are safe. People know that THAAD can shoot down short-and medium-range missiles.
India’s DRDO BMD Program
India has indigenously developed a two-tier ballistic missile defense (BMD) system consisting of Prithvi Air Defense (PAD) and Advanced Air Defense (AAD) interceptor missiles, which have been successfully tested against possible incoming threats.
Israel: Iron Dome and Arrow System
Israel uses the Iron Dome for defense against short-range ballistic threats, and the Arrow system is complementary in defense against long-range missile attacks.
Russia
Russia has one of the oldest, yet still efficient, missile defense systems. The A-135, S-400 are some of these systems.
China – HQ-19
China is also developing its missile defense and has tested newer technology interceptors.
Expensive
The construction and maintenance of a missile defense system cost billions of dollars.
Sophisticated Technology
Interception of a fast-flying missile, most times in the space whereas always in outer atmosphere, requires highly sophisticated technology.
Not Always Effective
While using BMD systems, there is no assurance that they will hit the target every time; they can also be deceived by decoys or by firing more than one missile at a time.
The Next Generation of Missile Defenses
BMD adapts to the missile threat. Nations are working with laser and sensors or space-based interceptors, tracking systems that are faster and more accurate, and with the artificial intelligence to make decisions. These are going to provide BMDs that are faster, more intelligent, and more reliable.
Conclusion
It can have one of the mightiest shields in the world – Ballistic Missile Defence. The madness or threat of a missile is averted and hence peace and security are preserved. A very expensive and tough thing to do but the benefit of saving some lives, protecting some infrastructure, and boosting national pride makes it worthwhile. In a world full of unknowns, BMD stands for strength, safety, and smart technology.