About Hwasong-18:
- It is a type of solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) developed by North Korea.
- It is North Korea's first ICBM to use solid-fuel, which allows for faster launches.
Solid Fuel vs Liquid Fuel Missiles:
- Liquid propellants provide greater propulsive thrust and power, but require more complex technology and extra weight.
- Solid fuel is dense and burns quite quickly, generating thrust over a short time.
- Solid fuel can remain in storage for an extended period without degrading or breaking down - a common issue with liquid fuel.
- Solid-fuel missiles are easier and safer to operate, and require less logistical support, making them harder to detect and more survivable than liquid-fuel weapons.
What is a Ballistic Missile?
- It is a rocket-propelled self-guided strategic-weapons system that follows a ballistic trajectory to deliver a payload from its launch site to a predetermined target.
- Ballistic missiles are powered initially by a rocket or series of rockets in stages, but then follow an unpowered trajectory that arches upwards before descending to reach its intended target.
- Ballistic missiles can carry either nuclear or conventional warheads.
- What is an ICBM? An ICBM, is a long-range (greater than 5,500 km or 3,500 miles) ballistic missile typically designed for nuclear weapons delivery, that is, delivering one or more nuclear warheads.
