Ballistic Missile vs Cruise Missile

Ballistic Missile

A ballistic missile follows a ballistic trajectory to deliver one or more warheads on a predetermined target.
A ballistic trajectory is the path of an object that is launched but has no active propulsion during its actual flight (these weapons are guided only during relatively brief periods of flight).
Consequently, the trajectory is fully determined by a given initial velocity, effects of gravity, air resistance, and motion of the earth (Coriolis Force).

Short-range (tactical) ballistic missile: Range between 300 km and 1,000 km.
Medium-range (theatre) ballistic missile: 1,000 km to 3,500 km.
Intermediate-range (Long-Range) ballistic missile: 3,500 km and 5,500 km.
Intercontinental ballistic missile: 5,500 km +

A cruise missile is a guided missile (target has to be pre-set) used against terrestrial targets.
It remains in the atmosphere throughout its flight.
It flies the major portion of its flight path at approximately constant speed.
Cruise missiles are designed to deliver a large warhead over long distances with high precision.
Modern cruise missiles are capable of travelling at supersonic or high subsonic speeds, are self-navigating, and are able to fly on a non-ballistic, extremely low-altitude trajectory.

Hypersonic (Mach 5): Travel at least five times the speed of sound (Mach 5). E.g. BrahMos-II.
Supersonic (Mach 2-3): Travel faster than the speed of sound. E.g. BrahMos.
Subsonic (Mach 0.8): Travel slower than the speed of sound. E.g. Nirbhay.

Features	Ballistic Missile	Cruise Missile
Flight Path	Follows a parabolic trajectory; most of its flight is outside the atmosphere.	Flies within the Earth’s atmosphere, following a relatively straight or guided path.
Propulsion	Powered during the initial phase of launch; relies on gravity and momentum for most of the flight.	Powered throughout its flight using jet engines or turbojets.
Speed	Typically faster; can reach hypersonic speeds.	Slower compared to ballistic missiles; subsonic or supersonic speeds.
Guidance System	Primarily inertial guidance; less manoeuvrable in the mid-course phase.	Highly manoeuvrable with advanced guidance systems like GPS or terrain-following radar.
Range	Generally long-range, capable of intercontinental distances (ICBMs).	Typically medium to short-range, though some have long-range capabilities.
Accuracy	Less accurate compared to cruise missiles; used for large-scale destruction.	High precision; designed for targeted strikes.
Payload Type	Can carry nuclear, conventional, or other payloads; often used for strategic missions.	Can carry conventional or nuclear payloads; suited for tactical missions.
Detection	Easier to detect during the boost phase due to heat and smoke trails.	Harder to detect due to low altitude flight and terrain hugging capabilities.
Examples	Prithvi I, Prithvi II, Agni I, Agni II and Dhanush missiles	BrahMos Missile