surface-to-surface missiles (SSMs) developed by various countries > CommonSense

surface-to-surface missiles (SSMs) developed by various countries. These missiles vary in range, payload, and technological sophistication, reflecting each nation's strategic goals and military capabilities.

1. United States
LGM-30 Minuteman III
Type: Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM)
Range: Approximately 13,000 km
Features:
Capable of carrying up to three nuclear warheads with multiple independent reentry vehicles (MIRVs).
A key part of the U.S. nuclear triad.
Purpose: Deterrence and long-range strategic strikes.
2. Russia
R-36M (SS-18 'Satan')

Type: ICBM
Range: Approximately 16,000 km
Features:
Can carry up to 10 nuclear warheads.
Designed to penetrate advanced missile defense systems.
Purpose: Strategic deterrence with unparalleled destructive capacity.
Iskander-M

Type: Short-range ballistic missile (SRBM)
Range: 500 km
Features:
High precision and capable of delivering nuclear or conventional payloads.
Purpose: Tactical battlefield use and regional deterrence.
3. China
Dongfeng-41 (DF-41)

Type: ICBM
Range: 12,000–15,000 km
Features:
Can carry up to 10 MIRVs.
One of the longest-range ICBMs in the world.
Purpose: Strategic deterrence with global strike capability.
Dongfeng-21D (DF-21D)

Type: Medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM)
Range: 1,500–2,000 km
Features:
Known as the "carrier killer," specifically designed to target aircraft carriers.
Purpose: Regional dominance and anti-access/area denial (A2/AD).
4. North Korea
Hwasong-15

Type: ICBM
Range: Approximately 13,000 km
Features:
Capable of carrying large nuclear warheads.
Potential to reach the continental United States.
Purpose: Strategic deterrence and power projection.
KN-23

Type: SRBM
Range: Approximately 450 km
Features:
Resembles Russia's Iskander-M.
Purpose: Tactical use and regional threats.
5. India
Agni-V

Type: ICBM
Range: Over 5,000 km
Features:
Capable of carrying nuclear warheads.
Designed for deterrence against China and other regional powers.
Purpose: Strategic deterrence.
Prithvi-II

Type: SRBM
Range: Approximately 350 km
Features:
High mobility and accuracy.
Purpose: Tactical battlefield applications.
6. South Korea
Hyunmoo-5
Type: SRBM
Range: 600–3,000 km (depending on payload)
Features:
Can carry a massive payload of 8–9 tons.
Purpose: Regional deterrence, with the capability to target key installations in North Korea.
7. France
M51
Type: Submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM)
Range: Over 10,000 km
Features:
MIRV-capable.
Purpose: Strategic deterrence as part of France's nuclear arsenal.
8. Iran
Shahab-3

Type: MRBM
Range: Approximately 1,300 km
Features:
Can deliver conventional or nuclear warheads.
Purpose: Regional deterrence and strike capability.
Fateh-313

Type: SRBM
Range: Approximately 500 km
Features:
High accuracy with advanced guidance systems.
Purpose: Tactical battlefield operations.
9. Israel
Jericho III
Type: ICBM
Range: Estimated at 11,500 km
Features:
Nuclear-capable.
Purpose: Strategic deterrence in the Middle East and beyond.
10. Pakistan
Shaheen-III
Type: MRBM
Range: Approximately 2,750 km
Features:
Nuclear-capable.
Purpose: Counterbalance to India's missile program.
Conclusion
Surface-to-surface missiles play a critical role in modern warfare, providing nations with strategic deterrence and tactical capabilities. From short-range missiles designed for battlefield support to intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of global reach, these weapons reflect the technological advancements and strategic priorities of their respective countries.