What does beam riding entail in missile guidance?

Beam riding in missile guidance refers to the technique of maintaining the missile within a designated control beam that is continuously directed at the target. This guidance strategy leverages the energy emitted from a radar or laser beam, which the missile's onboard systems detect. By staying within this beam, the missile can effectively steer itself toward the target, making real-time adjustments to its trajectory based on the guidance information received from the beam.

This method is particularly useful in scenarios where the missile must engage a moving target or where precise trajectory control is needed. The missile’s systems continuously assess its position relative to the beam, allowing for accurate navigation towards the target throughout its flight path, until the point of impact. The association with a continuous beam underscores the reliance on active guidance systems that can dynamically respond to changes in the target’s position or flight path. This fact differentiates beam riding from other guidance methods, which may not utilize continuous rays or may rely on passive detection mechanisms.