The BGM-109 Tomahawk is a submarine or ship-launched cruise missile. After launch, a solid propellant burns for 12 seconds clearing the launch area. The missile then deploys fins and small wings, and engages a small turbofan engine takes over for the cruise portion of flight. Radar detection is difficult because of the missile's small radar and visual cross-section, low altitude flight, small heat signature and high speed (650mph).
