An intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) is a long-range weapon that is fired into space and then releases a warhead or warheads that reenter the atmosphere to drop on their targets.
ICBMs are considered to have a minimum range of 5,500 kilometers (3,400 miles), but some versions can go much farther, more than 9,000 kilometers, according to the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation.
ICBMs can be launched from silos or mobile launch vehicles and can be solid- or liquid-fueled. Solid-fueled ICBMs are considered more dangerous as they can be moved and launched more quickly than liquid-fueled ones.
The first ICBM rocket was launched in 1957 by the then-Soviet Union. The United States followed in 1959.
Other types of ballistic missiles include intermediate range (IRBM), between 3,000 kilometers and 5,000 kilometers; medium range, between 1,000 and 3,000 kilometers; and short range, less than 1,000 kilometers.