Get the app →
BriefTea logoBriefTea

Every story in sixty words

Get the free app no ads · no paywall

Explained in plain English

What is a cruise missile?

A cruise missile is a guided missile that flies at low altitudes, often following the contours of the land, to avoid radar detection. They are designed to deliver a warhead to a specific target with high accuracy. The Russian cruise missile entering Polish airspace during an attack on Ukraine demonstrates their ability to travel significant distances and pose a threat to neighbouring countries.

Stories that explain this

Poland may intercept Russian missiles in Ukraine to secure its airspace

Related explainers

Can a country shoot down missiles over another? Why does Ukraine lack missile protection? What is NATO's role here? What are air-to-air missiles? What are ballistic missiles? What is a guided-missile destroyer? What are interceptor missiles? How do missile defence systems work?

The full catalogue

Browse every card filed under C →