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What are the main categories of tactical guided missiles?
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rocket and missile system
U.S. soldiers firing an FGM-148 Javelin antitank guided missile during training in Grafenwöhr, Ger., 2006.
Tactical guided missiles are generally categorized based on the location of their launch platform and their target. The five principal categories are:1
- Antitank and assault: Designed to engage armored targets or provide ground support.21
- Air-to-surface: Deployed from aircraft to strike targets on land or at sea.21
- Air-to-air: Used by fighter aircraft to engage other aerial targets.21
- Antiship: Specifically intended for naval combat against surface vessels.21
- Surface-to-air: Employed for antiaircraft defense from land or sea-based platforms.21
While these categories are standard, the distinctions between them are not always rigid; for example, certain antitank and antiaircraft missiles can be launched from helicopters, blurring the lines between traditional classifications. These systems integrate weapons with electronic equipment for target acquisition, fire control, and guidance to ensure accuracy within the immediate battle area.213