Synonyms for "anti ballistic-missile" include ABM, missile defense system, missile shield, and antimissile. These terms are used to describe technologies and systems that are designed to detect, track, and intercept incoming ballistic missiles before they hit their targets. ABMs are typically deployed to protect strategic military installations, cities, and other high-value targets from missile attacks. The use of ABMs has been controversial due to concerns about their effectiveness and their potential to destabilize international security. Still, the development of advanced ABM technologies continues to be a focus for governments around the world.