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An intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) is a type of ballistic missile weapon that is capable of delivering a payload over a long distance, typically thousands of kilometres, to a target on the other side of the world. ICBMs are the most powerful and destructive of all ballistic missiles and are the ultimate long-range weapons.
ICBMs usually carry nuclear warheads, though some countries have developed conventional versions. These missiles are typically launched from silos or mobile launchers, and can reach speeds of up to 15,000 mph (24,000 km/h).
The range of an ICBM depends on the type of warhead it carries, but can typically travel more than 6,000 miles (10,000 km).
ICBMs are a key part of the nuclear triad, which consists of land-based missiles, submarine-launched missiles, and strategic bombers.
They are primarily used as a means of deterrence, as they are capable of inflicting massive destruction and can be used to retaliate against an attack.
The development of ICBMs began in the 1950s, during the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union.
Both countries raced to develop and deploy these weapons, leading to an arms race that lasted for decades. Today, the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom all possess ICBMs.
The proliferation of ICBMs and other long-range weapons has been a source of tension between nations, as they can be used to launch a devastating attack on another country in a short amount of time.
To address this, the United Nations has implemented various arms control measures, including the START and INF treaties, which limit the number of ICBMs that countries can possess.
The Global Intercontinental ballistic missile market accounted for $XX Billion in 2022 and is anticipated to reach $XX Billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of XX% from 2023 to 2030.
The first company to enter the ICBM space is SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Elon Musk. SpaceX has announced the development of a new ICBM called the Starlink, which will be capable of carrying payloads of up to 7,500 pounds.
The Starlink is designed to be more agile and efficient than traditional ICBMs, and is expected to serve as a deterrent for potential adversaries. Another company that has recently announced a new ICBM is Lockheed Martin.
Lockheed Martin has developed the Long Range Hypersonic Missile (LRHM), a hypersonic missile that is capable of traveling at speeds of up to Mach 5.
The LRHM is designed to be capable of delivering multiple warheads to multiple targets and is expected to serve as a powerful deterrence tool.
Russia has also entered the ICBM market, with the announcement of their RS-28 Sarmat ICBM. The RS-28 Sarmat is capable of carrying up to 16 warheads and is designed to be capable of reaching targets located on the other side of the globe.
It is also designed to be highly maneuverable and resistant to interception, making it an effective deterrent.
