| Category | Ballistic Missile | Hypersonic Missile |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Follows a fixed, high-arc trajectory, powered initially, then gravity-controlled. | Travels at Mach 5+, can maneuver mid-flight, flies at lower altitudes. |
| Speed | Extremely fast (especially during re-entry). | > Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound). |
| Trajectory | Predictable, parabolic path. | Unpredictable, can change direction. |
| Altitude | Reaches outer/near-space. | Flies at lower altitudes. |
| Detection Difficulty | Easier to track due to fixed path. | Harder to detect due to maneuverability and low-altitude flight. |
| Warhead Capability | Can carry conventional/nuclear warheads, high destructive power (ICBMs). | Primarily precision strikes, but can also carry nuclear/conventional payloads. |
| Defense Evasion | Can be intercepted by traditional missile defense systems. | Harder to intercept due to speed and maneuverability. |
| Examples | Agni-V (India), DF-41 (China), Minuteman III (USA), RS-28 Sarmat (Russia). | BrahMos-II (India), Avangard (Russia), DF-ZF (China), Dark Eagle (USA). |
| Key Countries Developing | USA, Russia, China, India, North Korea. | USA, China, Russia, India. |
| India's Progress | Agni series (ICBM-capable). | HSTDV test successful, BrahMos-II under development. |
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