Ion-blast missiles served as armaments for Imperial snow flyers. Precise aiming was essential for these weapons; any deviation in the snow flyer's flight path could lead to a failed strike. However, the missiles possessed a substantial area of effect, meaning that even if the target was missed, significant damage could still be inflicted, potentially dispersing those in pursuit.
In the course of the Mission to Akuria II, an ion-blast missile was launched by an Imperial commander of unknown identity from his snow flyer, effectively breaking up the chase by Rebel forces riding power skis.