Retired colonel explains key differences between ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones

Retired Colonel Raafat Al-Sahaf explained that the differences between ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones are linked to several factors, most notably speed, altitude and size. He noted that the impact of intercepting these weapons varies depending on the type and characteristics of the target.

Speaking in an interview with Al Ekhbariya TV, Al-Sahaf said ballistic missiles travel at high altitudes, meaning they are intercepted in the upper layers of the atmosphere. Destroying them at such heights can cause debris of varying sizes to spread over greater distances due to the altitude at which interception occurs.

He added that cruise missiles and drones typically fly at lower altitudes and slower speeds compared to ballistic missiles. Interceptions therefore occur at relatively low altitudes, and the resulting debris tends to be smaller and less damaging than that produced by intercepting ballistic missiles.

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Al-Sahaf pointed out that speed, altitude and size are the main differences between these types of weapons, influencing how they are countered and the potential damage caused by falling debris.