Consider the following statements: 1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket- powered only in the initial phase of flight. 2. Agni-V is a medium- range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid- fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. A. 1 Only
2. B. 2 Only
3. C. Both 1 and 2
4. D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: D

Explanation

Both statements are incorrect:
1. **Statement 1**: This statement incorrectly swaps the characteristics of ballistic and cruise missiles. Cruise missiles are typically jet-propelled and fly within the atmosphere, often at subsonic, supersonic, or even hypersonic speeds. Ballistic missiles are rocket-powered only in their initial launch phase, after which they follow an unpowered, parabolic trajectory towards their target.
2. **Statement 2**: Agni-V is an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), not a medium-range supersonic cruise missile. BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile, not a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile. The statement misidentifies both missile types.
This question tests fundamental knowledge of missile types and India’s missile programs, a crucial part of Science & Technology and Internal Security.