Did limited numbers explain Soviet reliance on cruise missiles?

Was Soviet reliance on cruise missiles mainly a consequence of being unable to build enough ships?

Numbers mattered, but the ability to appear in many possible locations could require the opponent to defend much more widely.

Limited numbers form part of the explanation for Soviet reliance on cruise missiles. The comparison also depends on the number of places that need protection. A small force can impose wider defensive demands if it can appear in many possible locations.