What type of weapon was the V2?

The V2 was an inertially-guided liquid-fueled ballistic missile, making that the correct option. The V2, developed by Germany during World War II, was the world’s first long-range guided ballistic missile. It operated using a liquid propellant system and was propelled by a rocket engine.

In terms of guidance, the V2 utilized an inertial guidance system that allowed it to follow a pre-determined trajectory toward its target after launch, which is characteristic of ballistic missiles. Upon reaching the upper atmosphere, it would then follow a free-fall path back to Earth, impacting its target with devastating effect.

Understanding the V2's classification as a ballistic missile is crucial in distinguishing it from other types of weaponry, such as conventional artillery, which relies on explosive projectiles fired from a ground weapon without the use of guided technology. Attack helicopters employ rotary-winged aircraft equipped with various weapons systems, which fundamentally differ in delivery and use compared to the V2 missile. Guided bombs, while also precise in targeting, are typically dropped from an airplane and guided during the descent, differing from the self-propelled nature of a ballistic missile.