SUBMARINE-LAUNCHED BALLISTIC MISSILES (SLBM)

Ballistic missiles that can be triggered from submarines prowling deep in the ocean are known as Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBM). Like any other ICBM, the SLBM can also travel thousands of kilometres and effectively devastate enemy targets.

The most interesting feature of the SLBM is its under-water launching system. Igniting a rocket engine in the water is a problem. Therefore, the missile is first ejected out of the water and then its engines automatically get ignited in mid-air. SLBMs like Polaris work best when loaded on a stealth submarine like the USS George Washington.