The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word SLINGSHOTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Missile launchers" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case missile launchers = slingshots.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SLINGSHOTS mean?
SLINGSHOTS noun- A Y-shaped stick with an elastic sling between the arms used for shooting small projectiles.
- A stationary, often triangular object that launches any ball that hits its longest side back at a high force, now usually located above the flipper and between it and the inlane, with one each for both lower flippers.
- To move or cause to move in a manner resembling a projectile shot from a slingshot.
- (especially) To use the gravity of a moving planet to add momentum to a spacecraft.