Which missile system has a very small cross section and flies at low altitude, making radar detection difficult?

Prepare for the USNSCC Petty Officer 1st Class Test by studying with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question featuring hints and explanations. Gear up for your exam success!

The Tomahawk missile system is designed with a very small cross section and utilizes low-altitude flight, which significantly reduces its radar cross-section and makes it difficult for radar systems to detect. This stealth capability is a critical feature, enabling it to evade enemy air defenses and strike precision targets effectively. The missile typically follows a terrain-hugging flight path, maneuvering close to the ground to exploit natural cover and avoid detection.

In contrast, the other missile systems mentioned do not share the same design characteristics that prioritize low-altitude flight and radar evasion. The Phalanx, for instance, is a close-in weapon system primarily used for defense against incoming threats like missiles or aircraft, rather than for stealth. The Phoenix missile was designed for aerial combat and is not optimized for low-altitude stealth operations. The Harpoon missile, on the other hand, is an anti-ship missile that flies at a lower altitude compared to many others but does not have the same emphasis on a reduced radar cross-section as the Tomahawk.

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