Ballistic Missiles - GCSE History Definition

Ballistic missiles are weapons designed to carry explosive weapons over long distances. They are launched into the sky by rockets and follow a high, curved and planned path before falling back down to hit their target. Ballistic missiles played a significant role during the Cold War, as the United States and the Soviet Union built many ballistic missiles that could carry nuclear warheads. Their development and stockpiling started an arms race and raised global tensions. Understanding ballistic missiles is crucial for GCSE History students as it highlights the technological advancements and geopolitical strategies that defined much of the Cold War