How does an Inertial Navigation System (INS) assist with missile guidance?

An Inertial Navigation System (INS) is a self-contained system that assists with missile guidance by utilizing internal sensors to determine the position, orientation, and velocity of the missile. This is achieved through the integration of accelerometers and gyroscopes that continuously monitor the missile's motion and changes in direction. By calculating these movements over time, the INS can accurately compute the missile's current location relative to its starting point, allowing for precise navigation without the need for external references.

This approach is particularly beneficial in environments where GPS signals may be unavailable or jammed. The autonomy of an INS allows the missile to operate effectively in a variety of conditions, relying solely on its onboard measurements to guide it towards its target.

The other options, such as the reliance on GPS coordinates, constant communication with satellites, or visual signals, do not align with the fundamental operating principles of an INS. These systems depend exclusively on their integrated technology and internal measurements rather than external signals to function correctly.