Tartar missiles are a type of surface-to-air missile system developed by the United States in the 1950s. They were designed to provide naval ships with the capability to defend against aerial threats, such as enemy aircraft and missiles. The system uses radar guidance to track and intercept targets, making it effective for naval warfare. The Tartar missile system has been integrated into various naval vessels, including destroyers and cruisers. It is part of a broader category of missile systems that enhance a ship's defensive capabilities, contributing to the overall effectiveness of naval operations in protecting maritime interests.