Understanding the concept of FOBS in space/missile technology
Question
Which one of the following statements best reflects the idea behind the "Fractional Orbital Bombardment System" often talked about in media?
Options
A hypersonic missile is launched into space to counter the asteroid approaching the Earth and explode it in space.
A spacecraft lands on another planet after making several orbital motions.
A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth.
A spacecraft moves along a comet with the same speed and places a probe on its surface.
Explanation
A Fractional Orbital Bombardment System (FOBS) is a strategic weapon delivery concept where a nuclear warhead is launched into a low Earth orbit (rather than a traditional ballistic arc), completes a fraction of a full orbit, and then deliberately deorbits to strike a target, largely bypassing early warning radar systems.
Answer: (c).
Question details
Year
2022
Paper
GS Paper 1
Question
Q34
Subject
Science & Technology
Sub-topic
Space Technology & Astronomy
Type
Factual single
Difficulty
Medium
Nature
Current-affairs-linked
Source hint
Low Earth Orbit Weapons / Fractional Orbital Bombardment Strategic Systems
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