# Re-entry Speed of ICBMs/SLBMs and Other Factoids

**URL:** <https://boards.straightdope.com/t/re-entry-speed-of-icbms-slbms-and-other-factoids/156363>\
**Category:** Factual Questions\
**Created:** [February 20, 2003, 5:46pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/re-entry-speed-of-icbms-slbms-and-other-factoids/156363 "2003-02-20T17:46:41Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![tsunamisurfer](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/a698b9/32.png) [@tsunamisurfer](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/tsunamisurfer)\
**Post date:** [February 20, 2003, 5:46pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/re-entry-speed-of-icbms-slbms-and-other-factoids/156363/1 "2003-02-20T17:46:41Z")

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I recently read an article on the old Titan II missile, which begged many questions.

According to the article, the Titan II reaches an apogee of about 500 miles and a maximum velocity of about 15,000 mph. The article suggested its velocity during the atmospheric boost phase is relatively slow, but didn’t say how slow.

At about what velocity do so-called “high-speed ICBMs” (not sure if the Titan II qualifies as high-speed) narrow down on their targets? I can’t imagine any missile being able to sustain 15,000 mph once it has re-entered the atmosphere. In general terms, how do ICBMs overcome the considerable thermal stresses associated with high-speed flight in the atmosphere?

Also, how are the MIRVed warheads deployed–and at about what altitude? Does each warhead have a propulsion unit and guidance system?

Note to mods: This information is public domain, I think.

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**Author:** ![tsunamisurfer](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/a698b9/32.png) [@tsunamisurfer](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/tsunamisurfer)\
**Post date:** [February 22, 2003, 1:43am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/re-entry-speed-of-icbms-slbms-and-other-factoids/156363/2 "2003-02-22T01:43:25Z")

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No rocket scientists?