CRYSTAL MAZE 2 (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully carried out a test firing of a new version of an air-launched medium-range ballistic missile that is capable of hitting targets at a distance exceeding 250 km.

Crystal Maze 2

• About: Also known as ROCKS, is an air-launched medium-range ballistic missile developed in Israel.
• Purpose: The missile is designed to target high-value stationary and relocatable assets, including long-range radars and air defense systems of potential adversaries.
• Features: Distinguished from its predecessor, Crystal Maze 1, Crystal Maze 2 offers extended stand-off range capabilities as an air-to-surface missile.
• Range and Warhead Options: With a range of over 250 kilometers, it can be equipped with either a penetration or blast fragmentation warhead, making it capable of destroying both above-ground and well-protected underground targets.
• Effectiveness in GPS-Denied Environments: Crystal Maze 2 is specifically effective in GPS-denied environments, making it versatile in various operational scenarios.
• Deployment Strategy: The deployment strategy involves releasing the missile well outside the surface-to-air defended area, followed by a high-velocity trajectory to minimize risks to aircraft and missiles.

Ballistic Missile (BM)

• About: It is a projectile weapon designed to deliver warheads over long distances by following a ballistic trajectory.
• Operation: Ballistic missiles primarily utilize the force of gravity and internal guidance systems to navigate towards their target.
• Characteristics: Unlike traditional powered flight, ballistic missiles are powered only during initial launch stages, with most of their flight occurring in an unpowered state.
• Classification by Range: Short-range ballistic missiles (SRBM) typically operate within the Earth's atmosphere, while medium to intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) can traverse into space.