Which one of the following statements best describes the role of ‘Inte

Which one of the following statements best describes the role of ‘Intermediate Range Ballistic Missiles’ (IRBMs)?

They are designed to carry conventional warheads only.
They have a range between 1000 km and 5500 km.
They are used for tactical purposes against enemy forces.
They are usually launched from submarines.
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2010
Option B best describes the range of ‘Intermediate Range Ballistic Missiles’ (IRBMs).
– Ballistic missiles are classified based on their range. Standard classifications often use ranges like Short-Range (SRBM, typically < 1000 km), Medium-Range (MRBM, typically 1000-3000 km), Intermediate-Range (IRBM, typically 3000-5500 km), and Intercontinental (ICBM, > 5500 km).
– While the strict IRBM range is often cited as 3000-5500 km, option B provides a range (1000 km to 5500 km) that encompasses both MRBM and IRBM, and in a multiple-choice format, this is the most appropriate answer defining ‘intermediate range’ broadly, especially when other options are clearly incorrect.
– Option A is incorrect; IRBMs can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads.
– Option C is incorrect; IRBMs are typically used for strategic strikes against distant targets, not tactical purposes.
– Option D is incorrect; IRBMs are predominantly ground-launched, unlike SLBMs (Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles).
Missile range classifications can vary slightly depending on the source or treaty definition (e.g., the defunct INF Treaty used 500 to 5,500 km for ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles). However, the 1000-5500 km range in option B covers the typical operational ranges considered ‘intermediate’ or combining ‘medium’ and ‘intermediate’ ranges in a general classification.
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