PROBLEMATIC ISSUES AND TRENDS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF SHORT- AND MEDIUM-RANGE BALLISTIC MISSILES IN SOME COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD

The article examines the problematic issues and current trends in the development of short- and medium-range ballistic missiles worldwide. It is projected that the market for such missiles will continue to grow due to the modernization of weaponry, increased defense budgets, and the implementation of advanced technologies. It is noted that the development and production of such missiles are impossible without a well-developed research and industrial infrastructure, the level of which depends on a country's overall scientific and technological progress. The study provides a classification of ballistic missiles by flight range, analyzes key development trends, and considers only conventionally armed missiles. It presents the characteristics used to assess missile technology advancements, including tactical and technical parameters, guidance systems, and maneuvering capabilities. The main trends include equipping missiles with high-precision guidance systems that integrate inertial-satellite navigation with optoelectronic or radar homing heads; increasing flight speed from supersonic (3–4M) to hypersonic (over 5M), making interception more challenging; implementing quasi-ballistic trajectories to enhance maneuverability; deploying separable decoys, improving retargeting capabilities, and employing stealth technologies and electronic protection measures. An analysis of modern developments highlights the growing focus on creating high-precision and technologically sophisticated strike systems that could shift the balance of power in future conflicts. The study's findings are valuable for analyzing the global ballistic missile market and forecasting its development, considering the impact of emerging technologies and geopolitical changes. Keywords: short- and medium-range ballistic missiles, development trends, tactical and technical characteristics, quasi-ballistic trajectory, maneuverability.