STINGER

Source: FIRSTPOST

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Context:

• Recently, NATO has signed a nearly $700 million contract to have member countries produce more Stinger missiles.

Details:

About Stinger Missile:

The FIM-92 Stinger, designed and manufactured by the American Defense Industry, is a man-portable surface-to-air missile system (MANPADS) that entered service with the U.S. Army in 1981. Currently used by the U.S. armed forces and 29 other countries, it is produced by Raytheon Missile Systems and under license by EADS in Germany. It provides air defense capabilities to U.S. and allied troops, eliminating the immediate need for air support against enemy aircraft.

Technical specifications:

Length	1.52 m
Diameter	70 mm
Fins	10 cm
Weight	Approximately 15 kg (missile and launcher)
Launcher	Reusable
Portability	Can be carried and fired by troops or mounted on vehicles
Seeker Type	Passive infrared seeker
Lock-on Capability	Infrared seeker locks on to the target's heat
Guidance System	"Fire-and-forget"
Maximum Target Altitude	11,500 feet (3,500 meters)
Range	Approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers)

Key features:

• Portability and Versatility: The Stinger can be used in various configurations—handheld by infantry or mounted on vehicles. This flexibility allows it to be deployed in diverse operational environments.
• Target Acquisition and Tracking: The Stinger employs infrared homing technology to acquire and track its target. Its guidance system ensures a high probability of hit, even in complex battlefield
• Effective Range and Speed: The missile has an operational range of approximately 5 kilometers and can reach speeds up to Mach 2.2, enabling it to intercept fast-moving targets effectively.

Implications for Global Security

• Deterrence and Defense: By enhancing the production of Stinger missiles, NATO aims to improve the defensive postures of its member states, thereby deterring potential aggressors.
• Technological Advancements: Increased investments in missile production are likely to drive advancements in defense technologies, ensuring NATO forces remain equipped with state-of-the-art systems.
• Economic Impact: Nearly $700 million contract to increase the production of Stinger missiles. This decision was announced at the NATO summit in Washington in 2024.

Strategic Importance

• Support to Ukraine: Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Stinger was among the first weapons supplied by the U.S. to aid Ukrainian defense efforts.
  • Its effectiveness in countering aerial threats has been well-documented in the conflict.
• Strengthening NATO's Defense: The recent contract is part of a broader initiative to strengthen NATO member countries' weapons production capabilities.
  • The outgoing NATO Secretary General emphasized the importance of a strong defense industry, stating, "There is no way to provide strong defense without a strong defense industry."

READ ABOUT NATO- https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/nato-50#:~:text=Formation%3A,and%20ten%20Western%20European%20nations.

ALSO VISIT- https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/nato-49

Source:

https://www.firstpost.com/world/nato-signs-700-mn-stinger-missile-contract-in-push-for-defence-boost-13791252.html#google_vignette

PRACTICE QUESTION Which of the following statements about the Stinger Missile is correct? (a) The Stinger missile is an air-to-surface guided missile primarily used by the U.S. Navy. (b) The Stinger missile system employs an infrared homing guidance system and is used as a surface-to-air missile. (c) The Stinger missile was first developed during World War II as an anti-tank weapon. (d) The Stinger missile system is designed for use exclusively by special forces due to its complex operational requirements. Answer: (b)