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The Stinger takes off. Man-portable anti-aircraft missile system "Stinger"

Among modern weapons widely used in local conflicts, MANPADS play an important role. They are widely used both by the armies of various states and by terrorist organizations in the fight against air targets. The American Stinger MANPADS is considered the real standard of this type of weapon.

History of creation and implementation

The Stinger MANPADS was designed and produced by the American corporation General Dynamics. The start of work on this weapon system dates back to 1967. In 1971, the MANPADS concept was approved by the US Army and adopted as a prototype for further improvement under the designation FIM-92. The following year, its commonly used name “Stinger” was adopted, which is translated from English. means "sting".

Due to technical difficulties, the first real ones from this complex took place only in mid-1975. Serial production of the Stinger MANPADS began in 1978 with the aim of replacing the obsolete FIM-43 Red Eye MANPADS, produced since 1968.

In addition to the basic model, more than a dozen different modifications of this weapon were developed and produced.

Prevalence in the world

As noted above, the Stinger MANPADS became the successor to the Red Eye MANPADS system. Its missiles are an effective means of combating low-altitude air targets. Currently, complexes of this type are used by the armed forces of the United States and 29 other countries, they are manufactured by Raytheon Missile Systems and under license from EADS in Germany. The Stinger weapon system provides reliability for today's ground mobile military forces. Its combat effectiveness has been proven in four major conflicts, in which more than 270 combat aircraft and helicopters were destroyed with its help.

Purpose and characteristics

The MANPADS in question are lightweight, autonomous air defense systems that can be quickly deployed on military platforms in any combat situation. For what purposes can Stinger MANPADS be used? The characteristics of missiles controlled by reprogrammable microprocessors allow them to be used both for launch from helicopters in air-to-air mode to combat air targets, and for air defense in ground-to-air mode. Immediately after launch, the gunner can freely take cover to avoid being hit by return fire, thereby achieving his safety and combat effectiveness.

The rocket has a length of 1.52 m and a diameter of 70 mm with four aerodynamic rudders 10 cm high (two of them are rotary and two are fixed) in the nose. It weighs 10.1 kg, while the weight of the missile with launcher is about 15.2 kg.

Options for MANPADS "Stinger"

FIM-92A: first version.

FIM - 92C: missile with reprogrammable microprocessor. The influence of external interference was compensated for by the addition of more powerful digital computer components. In addition, the missile's software has now been reconfigured to respond quickly and effectively to new types of countermeasures (jamming and decoys) in a short period of time. Until 1991, about 20,000 units were produced for the US Army alone.

FIM-92D: Various modifications have been used in this version in order to increase immunity to interference.

FIM-92E: Block I microprocessor-reprogrammable missile. The addition of a new rollover sensor and software and control revisions resulted in significant improvements in missile flight control. In addition, the effectiveness of hitting small targets such as unmanned aircraft, cruise missiles and light reconnaissance helicopters has been improved. The first deliveries began in 1995. Almost the entire stock of Stinger missiles in the United States has been replaced with this version.

FIM-92F: further improvement of the E version and current production version.

FIM - 92G: Unspecified update for variant D.

FIM - 92H: D-version, improved to the level of the E-version.

FIM-92I: Block II microprocessor-reprogrammable missile. This variant was planned to be developed from version E. Improvements included an infrared homing head. In this modification, target detection distances and the ability to overcome interference were significantly increased. In addition, changes in design can significantly increase the range. Although work reached the testing stage, the program was discontinued in 2002 for budgetary reasons.

FIM-92J: Block I Microprocessor Reprogrammable Missiles update legacy components to extend service life an additional 10 years. The warhead is also equipped with a proximity fuse to increase effectiveness against

ADSM, Air Defense Suppression: Variant with an additional passive radar homing head, this variant can also be used against radar installations.

Rocket launch method

The American Stinger MANPADS (FIM-92) contains the AIM-92 missile enclosed in a shock-resistant, reusable rigid launch container. It is closed at both ends with lids. The front one transmits infrared and ultraviolet radiation, which is analyzed by the homing head. When launched, this cover is broken by the rocket. The back cover of the container is destroyed by a stream of gases from the starting accelerator. Due to the fact that the accelerator nozzles are located at an angle relative to the axis of the rocket, it acquires a rotational motion even when leaving the launch container. After the rocket exits the container, four stabilizers open in its tail section, which are located at an angle to the body. Due to this, a torque acts relative to its axis in flight.

After the rocket flies away to a distance of up to 8 m from the operator, the launch accelerator is separated from it and the two-stage sustainer engine is started. It accelerates the rocket to a speed of 2.2M (750 m/s) and maintains it throughout the flight.

Method of missile guidance and detonation

Let's continue to look at the most famous US MANPADS. The Stinger uses a passive infrared air target seeker. It does not emit radiation that aircraft can detect, but instead detects infrared energy (heat) emitted by an airborne target. Since the Stinger MANPADS operate in passive homing mode, this weapon follows the “fire and forget” principle, which does not require any instructions from the operator after the shot, unlike other missiles that need to adjust their trajectory from the ground. This allows the Stinger operator to begin engaging other targets immediately after firing.

The high explosive warhead weighs 3 kg with an impact fuse and a self-destruct timer. The warhead consists of an infrared target finder, a fuze section, and one pound of high explosives contained in a pyrophoric titanium cylinder. The fuse is extremely safe and does not allow the missile to be detonated by any type of electromagnetic radiation in combat conditions. Warheads can only be detonated upon impact with a target or due to self-destruction, which occurs 15 to 19 seconds after launch.

New aiming device

The latest versions of the MANPADS are equipped with a standard AN/PAS-18 sight. It is durable, lightweight and is attached to the launch container, providing the ability to launch a rocket at any time of the day. The device is designed to detect aircraft and helicopters beyond the missile's maximum flight range.

The main function of AN/PAS-18 is to increase the effectiveness of MANPADS. It operates in the same range of the electromagnetic spectrum as the missile's infrared finder, and detects anything that the missile can detect. This capability also allows for auxiliary night surveillance functions. Operating passively in the infrared spectrum, the AN/PAS-18 allows the gunner to issue target instructions to fire MANPADS in complete darkness and in conditions of limited visibility (such as fog, dust and smoke). Day or night, the AN/PAS-18 can detect aircraft at high altitudes. Under optimal conditions, detection can be at a distance of 20 to 30 kilometers. The AN/PAS-18 is least effective at detecting low-altitude aircraft flying directly toward the operator. When the exhaust plume is hidden by the aircraft body, it cannot be detected until it is outside an area of 8-10 kilometers from the operator. Detection range increases when the aircraft changes direction, allowing its own exhaust to be displayed. AN/PAS-18 is ready for operation within 10 seconds after turning on the power. It is powered by a lithium battery which provides 6-12 hours of battery life. The AN/PAS-18 is a secondary night vision device and does not have the resolution needed to identify aircraft.

Combat use

In preparation for use, a trigger mechanism is attached to the launch container using special locks, into which the power supply is pre-installed. It is connected to the battery via a cable. In addition, a cylinder with liquid inert gas is connected to the rocket’s on-board network through a fitting. Another useful device is the Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) target identification unit. The antenna of this system, which has a very distinctive “lattice” appearance, is also attached to the trigger mechanism.

How many people does it take to launch a missile from a Stinger MANPADS? Its characteristics allow this to be done by one operator, although officially two people are required to operate it. At the same time, the second number monitors the airspace. When the target is detected, the shooter operator places the complex on his shoulder and points it at the target. When it is captured by the infrared missile seeker, a sound and vibration signal is sent, after which the operator, by pressing a special button, must unlock the gyro-stabilized platform, which in flight maintains a constant position relative to the ground, providing control of the instantaneous position of the missile. Then the trigger is pressed, after which liquid inert gas to cool the infrared homing seeker is supplied from the cylinder on board the rocket, its onboard battery is put into operation, the power plug is discarded and the launch accelerator squib is turned on.

How far can the Stinger shoot?

The firing range of the Stinger MANPADS in altitude is 3500 m. The missile searches for infrared light (heat) produced by the target aircraft's engine and tracks the aircraft by following this source of infrared radiation. The missiles also detect the ultraviolet "shadow" of a target object and use it to distinguish the target from other heat-producing objects.

The range of the Stinger MANPADS in pursuit of a target has a wide range for its different versions. So, for the basic version the maximum range is 4750 m, and for the FIM-92E version it reaches up to 8 km.

Performance characteristics of MANPADS "Stinger"

Russian MANPADS "Igla"

It is of some interest to compare the characteristics of the Stinger and Igla-S MANPADS, adopted in 2001. The photo below shows the moment of the shot from

Both complexes have similar missile weights: the Stinger has 10.1 kg, the Igla-S 11.7, although the Russian missile is 135 mm longer. But the body diameter of both missiles is very similar: 70 and 72 mm, respectively. Both of them are capable of hitting targets at altitudes of up to 3500 m with infrared homing warheads of approximately the same weight.

How similar are the other characteristics of the Stinger and Igla MANPADS? Comparing them demonstrates an approximate parity of capabilities, which once again proves that the level of Soviet defense developments may well be raised in Russia to the best foreign weapons.

FIM-92 "Stinger" (English FIM-92 Stinger - Sting) - This portable anti-aircraft missile system (MANPADS) American made. Its main purpose is to destroy low-flying airborne objects: helicopters, airplanes and UAVs.

Development MANPADS "Stinger" led by General Dynamics. It was created as a replacement for MANPADS FIM-43 Redeye. The first batch of 260 units. anti-aircraft missile systems were put into trial operation in mid-1979. After this, the manufacturing company was ordered another batch of 2250 units. For .

"Stingers" adopted in 1981, they became the most common in the world MANPADS, which equip the armies of more than twenty states.

A total of three modifications were created "Stinger":

Basic (“Stinger”),
"Stinger"-RMP (Reprogrammable Microprocessor),
"Stinger"-POST (Passive Optical Seeking Technology).

They have the same composition of weapons, target engagement height and firing range. The difference between them is the homing heads ( GOS), which are used on anti-aircraft missiles FIM-92(modifications A, B, C). Currently, Raytheon produces modifications: FIM-92D, FIM-92E Block I And II. These upgraded versions have better seeker sensitivity, as well as immunity to interference.

Design and performance characteristics of the Stinger MANPADS

GOS POST, which is used on SAM(Anti-aircraft guided missile— approx. Last Day Club)FIM-92B, operates in two wavelength ranges – ultraviolet (UK) and infrared (IR). If in a rocket FIM-92A While the IR seeker receives data about the target's position relative to its optical axis from a signal that modulates the rotating raster, the POST seeker uses a rasterless target coordinator. UV and IR radiation detectors operate in a circuit with two microprocessors. They can perform rosette scanning, which provides high target selection capability in conditions of strong background noise, and is also protected from infrared countermeasures.

Production SAM FIM-92B with GSH POST launched in 1983. However, in 1985, General Dynamics began developing SAM FIM-92C, so the release rate has slowed down somewhat. Development of the new rocket was completed in 1987. It uses the GSH POST-RMP, the processor of which can be reprogrammed, which ensures the adaptation of the guidance system to target and interference conditions using the appropriate program. The housing of the trigger mechanism of the Stinger-RMP MANPADS contains removable memory blocks with standard programs. Latest improvements MANPADS provided for equipping the rocket FIM-92C lithium battery, ring laser gyroscope, as well as an upgraded roll angular velocity sensor.

The following main elements can be distinguished Stinger MANPADS:

Transport and launch container (TPC) with missiles;
An optical sight that allows visual detection and tracking of a target and determining the approximate range to it;
Starting mechanism and cooling and power supply unit with a capacity of liquid argon and electric batteries;
Also installed is the AN/PPX-1 “friend or foe” equipment with electronic media, which is attached to the shooter’s belt.

On rockets FIM-92E Block I Dual-band noise-protected socket homing heads (GOS) are installed, which operate in the UV and IR ranges. In addition, high-explosive fragmentation warheads weighing three kilograms. Their flight range is 8 kilometers, and the speed of M = 2.2 V rockets FIM-92E Block II an all-angle thermal imaging seeker is installed, in the focal plane of which the optical system of the IR detector array is located.

During the production of rockets, the canard aerodynamic design was used. The nose section contains four aerodynamic surfaces: two act as rudders, and the other two remain stationary relative to the rocket body. When maneuvering with the help of one pair of rudders, the rocket rotates around the longitudinal axis, while the control signals that are received by them are coordinated with the movement of the rocket around this axis. The initial rotation of the rocket is provided by inclined nozzles of the launch accelerator relative to the body. Rotation in flight is maintained due to the opening of the planes of the tail stabilizer when exiting the TPK, which are also located at an angle to the body. The use of a pair of rudders during control significantly reduced the weight and cost of flight control devices.

The missile is driven by a solid-fuel dual-mode propulsion engine Atlantic Research Mk27, which provides acceleration to a speed of M=2.2 and maintains it throughout the flight to the target. This engine begins to operate after the launch accelerator has separated and the rocket has moved to a safe distance from the shooter - approximately 8 meters.

Weight of combat equipment SAM is three kilograms - this is a high-explosive fragmentation part, an impact fuse, as well as a safety-actuating mechanism that ensures the removal of the safety stages and gives the command for the self-destruction of the missile if it does not hit the target.

To accommodate SAM A sealed cylindrical TPC made of TPC is used, which is filled with an inert gas. The container has two lids that are destroyed when launched. The front material allows IR and UV radiation to pass through, allowing target acquisition without the need to break the seal. The container is secure and sealed enough to store the missiles without the need for maintenance for ten years.

There is a trigger on the handle, which has one neutral and two working positions. When the hook is moved to the first operating position, the cooling and power supply units are activated. Electricity and liquid argon begin to arrive on board the rocket, which cool the seeker detectors, spin the gyroscope and perform other operations to prepare SAM to launch. When the hook is moved to the second operating position, the onboard electric battery is activated, which provides power to the rocket’s electronic equipment for 19 seconds. The next step is to start working the rocket launch engine igniter.

During the battle, information about targets is transmitted by an external detection and target designation system or by a crew number that monitors the airspace. After the target is detected, the shooter operator places MANPADS on the shoulder, starting to aim at the selected target. After the target is captured by the missile's seeker, a sound signal is triggered, and the optical sight begins to vibrate using a device adjacent to the operator's cheek. After that, pressing a button turns on the gyroscope. In addition, before launching, the shooter must enter the required lead angles.

When the trigger guard is pressed, the on-board battery is activated, which returns to normal mode after the compressed gas cartridge is triggered, discarding the breakaway plug, thereby cutting off the power transmitted by the cooling and power supply unit. Then the squib is turned on, starting the starting engine.

MANPADS "Stinger" has the following tactical and technical characteristics:

Affected area:
- Range - 500-4750 m
- Height - 3500 m
Set weight: 15.7 kg
Rocket weight: 10.1 kg
Rocket dimensions:
- Length - 1500 mm
- Case diameter - 70 mm
- Stabilizer span: 91 mm
Rocket speed: 640 m/s

Typically, calculations MANPADS during combat operations they perform tasks independently or as part of a unit. The crew's fire is controlled by its commander. Autonomous target selection is possible, as well as using commands transmitted by the commander. The fire crew visually detects an air target and determines whether it belongs to the enemy. After this, if the target reaches the estimated range and the command to destroy is given, the crew launches the missile.

The current instructions for combat contain firing techniques for crews MANPADS. For example, to destroy single piston aircraft and helicopters, a method called “launch-observe-launch” is used, for a single jet aircraft “two launches-observe-launch”. In this case, both the shooter and the crew commander shoot at the target simultaneously. If there are a large number of air targets, the fire crew selects the most dangerous targets, with the gunner and commander firing at different targets using the “launch-new target-launch” method. The following distribution of functions of the crew members occurs - the commander fires at the target or the target flying to his left, and the shooter attacks the leading or right-most object. The fire is carried out until the ammunition is completely consumed.

Coordination of fire between different crews is carried out using pre-agreed actions to select established sectors of fire and select a target.

It is worth noting that fire at night reveals firing positions, so in these conditions it is recommended to fire while moving or during short stops, changing position after each launch.

Service record of the Stinger MANPADS

First baptism of fire MANPADS "Stinger" took place during the British-Argentine conflict in 1982, which was caused by the Falkland Islands.

With help MANPADS provided cover for the British landing force, which landed on the shore, from attacks by attack aircraft of the Argentine army. According to the British military, they shot down one plane and foiled the attacks of several others. At the same time, an interesting thing happened when the missile fired at the Pukara turboprop attack aircraft hit one of the shells fired by the attack aircraft instead.

But this real “glory” MANPADS received after it began to be used by the Afghan Mujahideen to attack government and Soviet aircraft. Since the early 80s, the Mujahideen have used American systems "Red Eye", Soviet "Strela-2", as well as British missiles "Blowpipe".

It is also worth noting that until the mid-80s, with the help MANPADS no more than 10% of all aircraft belonging to government troops and “limited contingents” were shot down. The most effective missile at that time - supplied by Egypt "Strela-2m". It surpassed all competitors in speed, maneuverability and warhead power. For example, the American rocket "Red Eye" There were unreliable contact and non-contact fuses; sometimes the rocket crashed against the skin and flew off from the helicopter or plane. In any case, successful launches occurred quite regularly. However, the hit probability was almost 30% lower than that of the Soviet "Arrows".

The range of both missiles did not exceed three kilometers for firing at jet aircraft, two for the Mi-24 and Mi-8. And they didn’t hit the piston Mi-4s at all due to a weak IR signature. Theoretically, the British MANPADS "Blowpipe" there were much greater opportunities.

It was an all-aspect system that could fire at a combat aircraft on a collision course at a distance of up to six kilometers, and at a helicopter up to five kilometers. It easily bypassed heat traps, and the weight of the missile warhead was three kilograms, which provided acceptable power. But there was one thing, but... Guidance through manual radio commands, when a joystick moved by the thumb was used to control the missile, with a lack of experience on the part of the shooter, meant an inevitable miss. In addition, the entire complex weighed more than twenty kilograms, which also prevented its wide distribution.

The situation changed dramatically when the latest American missiles hit Afghanistan "Stinger".

The small 70 mm rocket was all-aspect, and guidance was completely passive and autonomous. The maximum speed reached 2M. In just one week of use, four Su-25 aircraft were shot down with their help. Thermal traps could not save the car, and the three-kilogram warhead was very effective against the Su-25 engines - the cables for controlling the stabilizers burned out in them.

During the first two weeks of hostilities using MANPADS "Stinger" in 1987, three Su-25s were destroyed. Two pilots were killed. At the end of 1987, losses amounted to eight aircraft. When firing at the Su-25, the “displacement” method worked well, but it was ineffective against the Mi-24. Once a Soviet helicopter was hit by two "Stinger", and into the same engine, but the damaged car managed to return to base. To protect helicopters, shielded exhaust devices were used, which reduced the contrast of infrared radiation by approximately half. A new pulse IR signal generator called L-166V-11E was also installed. He diverted the missiles to the side, and also provoked a false target acquisition by the seeker MANPADS.

But "Stingers" There were also weaknesses, which were initially considered advantages. The launcher had a radio rangefinder, which was detected by Su-25 pilots, which made it possible to use decoys preventively, increasing their effectiveness. Dushmans could use the “all-aspect” of the complex only in winter, since the heated leading edges of the attack aircraft’s wings did not have enough contrast to launch a rocket into the hemisphere in front.

After starting use MANPADS "Stinger" it was necessary to make changes to the tactics of using combat aircraft, as well as improve its security and jamming. It was decided to increase the speed and altitude when firing at ground targets, as well as to create special units and pairs for cover, which began the shelling in which they were discovered MANPADS. Very often the Mujahideen did not dare to use MANPADS, knowing about the inevitable retaliation from these aircraft.

It is worth noting that the most “unbreakable” aircraft were the Il-28 - hopelessly outdated bombers of the Afghan Air Force. This was largely due to the firing point of twin 23-mm cannons installed at the stern, which could suppress the firing positions of crews MANPADS.

The CIA and the Pentagon armed the Mujahideen with complexes "Stinger", pursuing a number of goals. One of them is testing new MANPADS in a real fight. The Americans correlated them with the supply of Soviet weapons to Vietnam, where Soviet missiles shot down hundreds of American helicopters and airplanes. However, the USSR helped the legitimate authorities of a sovereign country, while the United States sent weapons to anti-government armed mujahideen - or “international terrorists, as the Americans themselves now classify them.

Official Russian media support the opinion that subsequently the Afghan MANPADS were used by Chechen militants to fire at Russian aircraft during the “counter-terrorist operation”. However, this could not be true for some reasons.

First, disposable batteries last two years before needing to be replaced, while the rocket itself can be stored in a sealed package for ten years before requiring maintenance. The Afghan mujahideen could not independently replace the batteries and provide qualified service.

Most "Stingers" bought in the early 90s by Iran, which was able to put some of them back into operation. According to Iranian authorities, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps currently has about fifty complexes. "Stinger".

In the early 90s, Soviet military units were withdrawn from the territory of Chechnya, and after them many weapons warehouses remained. Therefore, there is a special need for "Stingers" did not have.

During the Second Chechen Campaign, militants used MANPADS of different types, which came to them from different sources. For the most part these were complexes "Needle" And "Arrow". Sometimes we met and "Stingers" who came to Chechnya from Georgia.

After operations by international forces began in Afghanistan, not a single case of the use of Stinger MANPADS was recorded.

Late 80s "Stingers" used by soldiers of the French Foreign Legion. With their help, they fired at Libyan combat vehicles. But there are no reliable details in “open sources”.

Currently MANPADS "Stinger" has become one of the most effective and widespread on the planet. Its missiles are used in various anti-aircraft systems for close fire - Aspic, Avenger and others. In addition, they are used on combat helicopters as self-defense weapons against airborne targets.

FIM-92 "Stinger" (eng. FIM-92 Stinger - Sting) is an American-made man-portable anti-aircraft missile system (MANPADS). Its main purpose is to destroy low-flying airborne objects: helicopters, airplanes and UAVs.

The development of the Stinger MANPADS was carried out by General Dynamics. It was created as a replacement for the FIM-43 Redeye MANPADS. The first batch of 260 units. anti-aircraft missile systems were put into trial operation in mid-1979. After this, the manufacturing company was ordered another batch of 2250 units. for the American army.

“Stingers” were put into service in 1981, they became the most widespread MANPADS in the world, which equip the armies of more than twenty countries.

In total, three modifications of the “Stinger” were created: the basic (“Stinger”), “Stinger”-RMP (Reprogrammable Microprocessor) and “Stinger”-POST (Passive Optical Seeking Technology). They have the same composition of weapons, target engagement height and firing range. The difference between them is in the homing heads (GOS), which are used on FIM-92 anti-aircraft missiles (modifications A, B, C). Currently, Raytheon produces modifications: FIM-92D, FIM-92E Block I and II. These upgraded versions have better seeker sensitivity, as well as immunity to interference.

The POST seeker, which is used on the FIM-92B missile defense system, operates in two wavelength ranges - ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR). If in the FIM-92A missile the IR seeker receives data about the position of the target relative to its optical axis from a signal that modulates the rotating raster, then the POST seeker uses a rasterless target coordinator. UV and IR radiation detectors operate in a circuit with two microprocessors. They can perform rosette scanning, which provides high target selection capability in conditions of strong background noise, and is also protected from infrared countermeasures.

Production of the FIM-92B missile defense system with GSH POST was launched in 1983. However, in 1985, General Dynamics began developing the FIM-92C missile defense system, so the production rate slowed down somewhat. Development of the new rocket was completed in 1987. It uses the GSH POST-RMP, the processor of which can be reprogrammed, which ensures the adaptation of the guidance system to target and interference conditions using the appropriate program. The housing of the trigger mechanism of the "Stinger"-RMP MANPADS contains removable memory blocks with standard programs. The latest improvements to the MANPADS included equipping the FIM-92C missile with a lithium battery, a ring laser gyroscope, and an upgraded roll angular velocity sensor.

The following main elements of the Stinger MANPADS can be distinguished:

A transport and launch container (TPC) with a missile defense system, as well as an optical sight allowing for visual detection and tracking of a target and determining the approximate range to it. Starting mechanism and cooling and power supply unit with a capacity of liquid argon and electric batteries. Also installed is the AN/PPX-1 “friend or foe” equipment with electronic media, which is attached to the shooter’s belt.

FIM-92E Block I missiles are equipped with dual-band noise-immune socket homing heads (GOS), which operate in the UV and IR ranges. In addition, high-explosive fragmentation warheads weighing three kilograms. Their flight range is 8 kilometers, and the speed is M=2.2. The FIM-92E Block II missile is equipped with an all-angle thermal imaging seeker, in the focal plane of which the optical system of the IR detector matrix is located.

The weight of the combat equipment of the missile defense system is three kilograms - this is a high-explosive fragmentation part, an impact fuse, as well as a safety-actuating mechanism that ensures the removal of the safety stages and gives the command for the self-destruction of the missile if it does not hit the target.

To accommodate the missile defense system, a sealed cylindrical TPK made of TPK is used, which is filled with inert gas. The container has two lids that are destroyed when launched. The front material allows IR and UV radiation to pass through, allowing target acquisition without the need to break the seal. The container is secure and sealed enough to store the missiles without the need for maintenance for ten years.

Special locks are used to attach the trigger mechanism that prepares the rocket for launch and launches it. In preparation for launch, a cooling and power supply unit with an electric battery is installed in the launcher body, which is connected to the on-board rocket system using a plug connector. The container with liquid argon is connected to the cooling system line via a fitting. At the bottom of the trigger mechanism there is a plug connector that is used to connect the electronic sensor of the “friend or foe” system. There is a trigger on the handle, which has one neutral and two working positions. When the hook is moved to the first operating position, the cooling and power supply units are activated. Electricity and liquid argon begin to flow on board the rocket, which cool the seeker detectors, spin the gyroscope and perform other operations to prepare the air defense system for launch. When the hook is moved to the second operating position, the onboard electric battery is activated, which provides power to the rocket’s electronic equipment for 19 seconds. The next step is to start working the rocket launch engine igniter.

During the battle, information about targets is transmitted by an external detection and target designation system or by a crew number that monitors the airspace. After the target is detected, the operator-gunner places the MANPADS on his shoulder, starting to aim at the selected target. After the target is captured by the missile's seeker, a sound signal is triggered, and the optical sight begins to vibrate using a device adjacent to the operator's cheek. After that, pressing a button turns on the gyroscope. In addition, before launching, the shooter must enter the required lead angles.

The Stinger MANPADS has the following tactical and technical characteristics.

The affected area is 500-4750 meters in range and 3500 meters in height. The kit in combat position weighs 15.7 kilograms, and the launch weight of the rocket is 10.1 kilograms. The length of the rocket is 1500 mm, the diameter of its body is 70 mm and the span of the stabilizers is 91 mm. The rocket flies at a speed of 640 m/s.

As a rule, MANPADS crews perform missions independently or as part of a unit during combat operations. The crew's fire is controlled by its commander. Autonomous target selection is possible, as well as using commands transmitted by the commander. The fire crew visually detects an air target and determines whether it belongs to the enemy. After this, if the target reaches the estimated range and the command to destroy is given, the crew launches the missile.

The current combat instructions contain firing techniques for MANPADS crews. For example, to destroy single piston aircraft and helicopters, a method called “launch-observe-launch” is used, for a single jet aircraft “two launches-observe-launch”. In this case, both the shooter and the crew commander shoot at the target simultaneously. If there are a large number of air targets, the fire crew selects the most dangerous targets, with the gunner and commander firing at different targets using the “launch-new target-launch” method. The following distribution of functions of the crew members occurs - the commander fires at the target or the target flying to his left, and the shooter attacks the leading or right-most object. The fire is carried out until the ammunition is completely consumed.

Coordination of fire between different crews is carried out using pre-agreed actions to select established sectors of fire and select a target.

It is worth noting that fire at night reveals firing positions, so in these conditions it is recommended to fire while moving or during short stops, changing position after each launch.

The first baptism of fire of the Stinger MANPADS took place during the British-Argentine conflict in 1982, which was caused by the Falkland Islands.

With the help of MANPADS, cover was provided for the British landing force, which landed on the shore, from attacks by attack aircraft of the Argentine army. According to the British military, they shot down one plane and foiled the attacks of several others. At the same time, an interesting thing happened when the missile fired at the Pukara turboprop attack aircraft hit one of the shells fired by the attack aircraft instead.

Light Argentine turboprop attack aircraft "Pucara"

But this MANPADS gained real “fame” after the Afghan Mujahideen began to use it to attack government and Soviet aircraft.

Since the early 80s, the Mujahideen have used American Red Eye systems, Soviet Strela-2 missiles, and British Blowpipe missiles.

It is also worth noting that until the mid-80s, no more than 10% of all aircraft belonging to government forces and “limited contingents” were shot down using MANPADS. The most effective rocket at that time was the Strela-2m supplied by Egypt. It surpassed all competitors in speed, maneuverability and warhead power. For example, the American Red Eye rocket had unreliable contact and non-contact fuses; sometimes the rocket crashed against the skin and flew off from a helicopter or airplane.

In any case, successful launches occurred quite regularly. However, the probability of a hit was almost 30% lower than that of the Soviet Strela.

The situation changed dramatically when the latest American Stinger missiles hit Afghanistan.

During the first two weeks of hostilities using the Stinger MANPADS in 1987, three Su-25s were destroyed. Two pilots were killed. At the end of 1987, losses amounted to eight aircraft.

When firing at the Su-25, the “displacement” method worked well, but it was ineffective against the Mi-24. One day, a Soviet helicopter was hit by two Stingers at once, hitting the same engine, but the damaged aircraft managed to return to base. To protect helicopters, shielded exhaust devices were used, which reduced the contrast of infrared radiation by approximately half. A new pulse IR signal generator called L-166V-11E was also installed. He diverted the missiles to the side, and also provoked a false target acquisition by the MANPADS seeker.

But the Stingers also had weaknesses, which were initially considered advantages. The launcher had a radio rangefinder, which was detected by Su-25 pilots, which made it possible to use decoys preventively, increasing their effectiveness.

Dushmans could use the “all-aspect” of the complex only in winter, since the heated leading edges of the attack aircraft’s wings did not have enough contrast to launch a rocket into the hemisphere in front.

After the start of using the Stinger MANPADS, it was necessary to make changes to the tactics of using combat aircraft, as well as improve its security and jamming. It was decided to increase the speed and altitude when firing at ground targets, as well as to create special units and pairs for cover, which began shelling in which MANPADS were detected. Very often, the Mujahideen did not dare to use MANPADS, knowing about the inevitable retaliation from these aircraft.

The CIA and the Pentagon armed the Mujahideen with Stinger systems, pursuing a number of goals. One of them is testing the new MANPADS in real combat. The Americans correlated them with Soviet supplies to Vietnam, where Soviet missiles shot down hundreds of American helicopters and airplanes. However, the USSR helped the legitimate authorities of a sovereign country, while the United States sent weapons to anti-government armed mujahideen - or “international terrorists, as the Americans themselves now classify them.

Official Russian media support the view that Afghan MANPADS were subsequently used by Chechen militants to fire at Russian aircraft during a “counter-terrorism operation.” However, this could not be true for some reasons.

Most of the Stingers were bought by Iran in the early 90s, which was able to put some of them back into service. According to Iranian authorities, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps currently has about fifty Stinger systems.

In the early 90s, Soviet military units were withdrawn from the territory of Chechnya, and after them many weapons warehouses remained. Therefore, there was no particular need for Stingers.

During the Second Chechen Campaign, militants used various types of MANPADS, which came to them from different sources. For the most part these were the Igla and Strela complexes. Sometimes there were also “Stingers” that came to Chechnya from Georgia.

After operations by international forces began in Afghanistan, not a single case of the use of Stinger MANPADS was recorded.

In the late 80s, Stingers were used by soldiers of the French Foreign Legion. With their help, they fired at Libyan combat vehicles. But there are no reliable details in “open sources”.

Currently, the Stinger MANPADS has become one of the most effective and widespread on the planet. Its missiles are used in various anti-aircraft systems for close fire - Aspic, Avenger and others. In addition, they are used on combat helicopters as self-defense weapons against airborne targets.

11.03.2015, 13:32

Comparative characteristics of man-portable anti-aircraft missile systems around the world.

On March 11, 1981, the Igla-1 man-portable anti-aircraft missile system was put into service. It replaced the Strela MANPADS, making it possible to hit enemy aircraft with greater accuracy in all angles of their movement. The Americans had an analogue in the same year. French and British designers have achieved significant success in this area.

Background

The idea of hitting air targets not with anti-aircraft artillery fire, but with missiles appeared back in 1917 in Great Britain. However, it was impossible to implement it due to the weakness of technology. In the mid-30s, S.P. Korolev became interested in the problem. But even his work did not go beyond laboratory tests of missiles guided by a searchlight beam.

The first anti-aircraft missile system, the S-25, was made in the Soviet Union in 1955. An analogue appeared in the USA three years later. But these were complex rocket launchers transported on tractors, the deployment and movement of which required considerable time. In field conditions on very rough terrain, their use was impossible.

In connection with this, the designers began to create portable complexes that could be controlled by one person. True, such weapons already existed. At the end of World War II in Germany, and in the 60s in the USSR, anti-aircraft grenade launchers were created, which did not go into production. These were multi-barreled (up to 8 barrels) portable launchers that fired in one gulp. However, their effectiveness was low due to the fact that the fired projectiles did not have any target guidance system.

The need for MANPADS arose in connection with the increasing role of attack aircraft in military operations. Also, one of the most important goals of creating MANPADS was to supply them to irregular armies for partisan groups. Both the USSR and the USA were interested in this, since they provided assistance to non-governmental groups in all parts of the world. The Soviet Union supported the so-called liberation movements of a socialist orientation, the United States supported the rebels who fought the government troops of countries where the socialist idea was already beginning to take root.

The British made the first MANPADS in 1966. However, they chose an ineffective method of guiding Blowpipe missiles - radio command. And although this complex was produced until 1993, it was not popular among the partisans.

The first sufficiently effective MANPADS "Strela" appeared in the USSR in 1967. His missile used a thermal homing head. “Strela” performed well during the Vietnam War - with its help, partisans shot down more than 200 American helicopters and aircraft, including supersonic ones. In 1968, the Americans also had a similar complex - Redeye. It was based on the same principles and had similar parameters. However, arming the Afghan Mujahideen with it did not produce tangible results, since new generation Soviet aircraft were already flying in the Afghan skies. And only the appearance of the Stingers became sensitive for Soviet aviation.

The first MANPADS had certain problems, in particular regarding target designation, which were solved in the next generation complexes.

"Strela" is replaced by "Needle"

The Igla MANPADS, developed at the Kolomna Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering (chief designer S.P. Nepobedimy) and put into service on March 11, 1981, is still in use today in three modifications. It is used in the armies of 35 countries, including not only our former fellow travelers on the socialist path, but also, for example, South Korea, Brazil, and Pakistan.

The main differences between the “Igla” and the “Strela” are the presence of a “friend or foe” interrogator, a more advanced method of guiding and controlling the missile, and a greater power of the warhead. An electronic tablet was also introduced into the complex, on which, based on incoming information from the division’s air defense systems, up to four targets present in a 25x25 km square were displayed.

Additional striking power was obtained due to the fact that in the new missile, at the moment of hitting the target, not only the warhead, but also the unspent fuel of the main engine was detonated.

If the first modification of the Strela could hit targets only on catch-up courses, then this drawback was eliminated by cooling the homing head with liquid nitrogen. This made it possible to increase the sensitivity of the infrared radiation receiver and obtain more contrasting target visibility. Thanks to this technical solution, it became possible to hit targets from all angles, including those flying towards them.

The use of MANPADS in Vietnam made it possible to push low-flying attack aircraft to medium altitudes, where they were dealt with by the SAM-75 and anti-aircraft artillery.

However, by the end of the 70s, the use of false thermal targets by aircraft - fired squibs captured by IR sensors - significantly reduced the effectiveness of the Strela. In Igla, this problem was solved through a set of technical measures. These include increasing the sensitivity of the homing head (GOS) and the use of a two-channel system in it. Also, a logical block for identifying true targets against the background of interference has been introduced into the seeker.

“Igla” has another significant advantage. Previous generation missiles were precisely aimed at the most powerful heat source, that is, the aircraft engine nozzle. However, this part of the aircraft is not too vulnerable due to the use of particularly durable materials. In the Igla missile defense system, aiming occurs with a shift - the missile hits not the nozzle, but the least protected areas of the aircraft.

Thanks to the new qualities, Igla is capable of hitting not only supersonic aircraft, but also cruise missiles.

Since 1981, MANPADS have been periodically modernized. The army is now receiving the latest Igla-S complexes, which were put into service in 2002.

American, French and British complexes

The American new generation MANPADS “Stinger” also appeared in 1981. And two years later it began to be actively used by dushmans during the Afghan War. At the same time, it is difficult to talk about real statistics on the destruction of targets using it. In total, about 170 Soviet planes and helicopters were shot down. However, the Mujahideen equally used not only American portable weapons, but also Soviet Strela-2 complexes.

MANPADS "Stinger"

The first Stingers and Needles had approximately the same parameters. The same can be said about the latest models. However, there are significant differences regarding the flight dynamics, the seeker, and the detonation mechanism. Russian missiles are equipped with a “vortex generator” - an induction system that is triggered when flying near a metal target. This system is more effective than infrared, laser or radio fuses on foreign MANPADS.

The Igla has a dual-mode propulsion engine, while the Stinger has a single-mode propulsion engine, so the Russian missile has a higher average speed (although the maximum is lower) and a flight range. But at the same time, the Stinger’s seeker operates not only in the infrared, but also in the ultraviolet range.

MANPADS "Mistral"

The French Mistral MANPADS, which appeared in 1988, has an original seeker. She was simply taken from an air-to-air missile and driven into the “pipe”. This solution allows a mosaic-type infrared seeker to capture fighters from the front hemisphere at a range of 6-7 km. The launcher is equipped with a night vision device and a radio sight.

In 1997, the Starstrake MANPADS was adopted in Great Britain. This is a very expensive weapon, significantly different from traditional designs. Firstly, a module with three missiles flies out of the “pipe”. It is equipped with four semi-active laser seekers - one common and one for each detachable warhead. Separation occurs at a distance of 3 km to the target, when the heads capture it. The firing range reaches 7 km. Moreover, this range is applicable even for helicopters with an ECU (a device that reduces the exhaust temperature). For thermal seekers, in this case this distance does not exceed 2 km. And one more important feature is that the warheads are kinetic fragmentation warheads, that is, they do not have explosives.

Performance characteristics of MANPADS "Igla-S", "Stinger", "Mistral", "Starstrake"

Firing range: 6000 km – 4500 m – 6000 m – 7000 m
Height of targets hit: 3500 m – 3500 m – 3000 m – 1000 m
Target speed (oncoming course/catching course): 400 m/s / 320 m/s – n/a – n/a – n/a

Maximum rocket speed: 570 m/s – 700 m/s – 860 m/s – 1300 m/s
Rocket weight: 11.7 kg – 10.1 kg – 17 kg – 14 kg
Warhead weight: 2.5 kg – 2.3 kg – 3 kg – 0.9 kg

Rocket length: 1630 mm – 1500 mm – 1800 mm – 1390 mm
Rocket diameter: 72 mm – 70 mm – 90 mm – 130 mm
GOS: IR - IR and UV - IR - laser.

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Performance characteristics
Weight of the complex in combat position, kg
Rocket launch mass, kg
Rocket length, mm
Rocket body diameter, mm
Stabilizer span, mm
Warhead weight, kg
Rocket flight speed, m/s
Damage zone by range (overtake), m	500–4750
Damage zone in height, m

The Stinger man-portable anti-aircraft missile system (MANPADS) is designed to defeat both on-coming and catch-up aircraft, including supersonic ones, and helicopters flying at low and extremely low altitudes. This complex, created by General Dynamics, is the most widespread means of combating air targets in service with foreign armies.
The Stinger MANPADS are in service with a number of countries, including Western European partners of the United States in NATO (Greece, Denmark, Italy, Turkey, Germany), as well as Israel, South Korea and Japan.

To date, three modifications have been developed: “Stinger” (basic), “Stinger”-POST (Passive Optical Seeking Technology) and “Stinger”-RMP (Reprogrammable Microprocessor). They have the same composition of means, as well as the values of the firing range and height of engagement of the target, differing only in the homing heads (GOS) used on the FIM-92 anti-aircraft missiles of modifications A, B and C, corresponding to the three modifications of MANPADS listed above.
The development of the Stinger complex was preceded by work under the ASDP (Advanced Seeker Development Program), which began in the mid-60s, shortly before the launch of mass production of the Red Eye MANPADS and aimed at theoretical development and experimental confirmation of the feasibility of the Red Eye complex concept Eye-2" with a missile on which an all-angle infrared seeker was supposed to be used. The successful implementation of the ASDP program allowed the US Department of Defense to begin funding the development of a promising MANPADS in 1972, called the “Stinger” (“Stinging Insect”). This development, despite the difficulties that arose during its implementation, was completed by 1977, and General Dynamics began production of the first batch of samples, which were tested during 1979–1980.
The test results of the Stinger MANPADS with the FIM-92A missile equipped with an infrared seeker (wavelength range 4.1–4.4 µm), which confirmed its ability to hit targets on a collision course, allowed the Ministry of Defense to make a decision on serial production and deliveries from 1981 complex for US ground forces in Europe. However, the number of MANPADS of this modification, provided for in the original production program, was significantly reduced due to the progress achieved in the development of the POST seeker, which began in 1977 and by that time was in its final stage.
The dual-band POST seeker used on the FIM-92B missile defense system operates in the IR and ultraviolet (UV) wavelength ranges. Unlike the IR seeker of the FIM-92A missile, where information about the position of the target relative to its optical axis is extracted from a signal modulated by a rotating raster, it uses a rasterless target coordinator. Its IR and UV radiation detectors, operating in one circuit with two digital microprocessors, allow rosette-shaped scanning, which provides, firstly, high target selection capabilities in conditions of background interference, and secondly, protection from IR countermeasures.
Production of the FIM-92B missiles with POST seeker began in 1983, however, due to the fact that in 1985 General Dynamics began creating the FIM-92C missiles, the production rate was reduced compared to that previously envisaged. The new missile, the development of which was completed in 1987, uses a POST-RMP seeker with a reprogrammable microprocessor, which provides the ability to adapt the characteristics of the guidance system to the target and jamming environment by selecting appropriate programs. Replaceable memory blocks in which standard programs are stored are installed in the housing of the trigger mechanism of the Stinger-RMP MANPADS. The latest improvements to the Stinger-RMP MANPADS were carried out in terms of equipping the FIM-92C missile with a ring laser gyroscope, a lithium battery, and an improved roll angular velocity sensor.

The Stinger MANPADS of all modifications consists of the following main elements: a missile defense system in a transport and launch container (TPC), an optical sight for visual detection and tracking of a target, as well as an approximate determination of the range to it, a trigger mechanism, a power supply and cooling unit with an electric battery and container with liquid argon, identification equipment “friend or foe” AN/PPX-1.
The electronic unit of the latter is worn on the waist belt of the anti-aircraft gunner.

FIM-92A missile

The rocket is made according to the canard aerodynamic configuration. In the bow there are four aerodynamic surfaces, two of which are rudders, and the other two remain stationary relative to the missile defense body. To control using one pair of aerodynamic rudders, the rocket rotates around its longitudinal axis, and the control signals supplied to the rudders are consistent with its movement relative to this axis. The rocket acquires its initial rotation due to the inclined location of the launch accelerator nozzles relative to the body. To maintain the rotation of the missile in flight, the planes of the tail stabilizer, which, like the rudders, open when the missile exits the TPK, are installed at a certain angle to the body. Control using one pair of rudders made it possible to achieve a significant reduction in the weight and cost of flight control equipment.
The solid-fuel dual-mode propulsion engine "Atlantic Research Mk27" ensures acceleration of the rocket to a speed corresponding to the Mach number = 2.2, and maintaining a relatively high speed throughout its flight to the target. This engine is turned on after the launch accelerator is separated and the rocket is removed to a safe distance for the gunner-operator (about 8 m).
The combat equipment of the missile defense system, weighing about 3 kg, consists of a high-explosive fragmentation warhead, an impact fuse and a safety-actuating mechanism that ensures the removal of the fuse safety stages and issuing a command to self-destruct the missile in case of a miss.

The missile defense system is housed in a sealed cylindrical fiberglass TPK filled with inert gas. Both ends of the container are closed with lids that collapse during startup. The front one is made of material that allows infrared and UV radiation, which allows the seeker to lock onto a target without breaking the seal. The tightness of the container and the sufficiently high reliability of the missile defense equipment ensure that missiles are stored by troops without maintenance for ten years.
The launch mechanism, with the help of which the rocket is prepared for launch and the launch is carried out, is attached to the TPK using special locks. The electric battery of the power supply and cooling unit (this unit is installed in the trigger housing in preparation for firing) is connected through a plug connector to the on-board network of the rocket, and a container with liquid argon is connected through a fitting to the cooling system line. On the lower surface of the trigger mechanism there is a plug connector for connecting the electronic unit of the “friend or foe” identification equipment, and on the handle there is a trigger with one neutral and two operating positions. When you press the trigger and move it to the first operating position, the power supply and cooling unit is activated, as a result of which electricity from the battery (voltage 20 volts, operating time of at least 45 seconds) and liquid argon enter on board the rocket, providing cooling for the seeker detectors , spinning up the gyroscope and performing other operations related to preparing the missile defense system for launch. With further pressure on the trigger and its occupation of the second operating position, the on-board electric battery is activated, capable of powering the electronic equipment of the rocket for 19 seconds, and the igniter of the missile launching engine is activated.
During combat operations, data on targets comes from an external detection and target designation system or from the crew number conducting airspace surveillance. After detecting a target, the shooter-operator places the MANPADS on his shoulder and points it at the selected target. When the missile's seeker captures it and begins to accompany it, a sound signal turns on and the vibration device of the optical sight, to which the shooter presses his cheek, warns of the target being captured. Then pressing the button will release the gyroscope. Before launch, the operator enters the required lead angles. With his index finger he presses the trigger guard, and the on-board battery begins to work. When it returns to normal mode, the cartridge with compressed gas is activated, which discards the tear-off plug, turning off the power from the power supply and cooling unit and turning on the squib to start the starting engine.

The main combat unit of the Stinger MANPADS is a crew consisting of a commander and a gunner-operator, who have at their disposal six missiles in the TPK, an electronic warning and display unit for the air situation, as well as an M998 Hammer all-terrain vehicle (4x4 wheel arrangement). The main crews are available in the regular anti-aircraft divisions of American divisions (there are 72 of them in the air assault division, 75 in the armored division, and 90 in the light infantry division), as well as in the “Patriot” and “Improved Hawk” missile defense divisions.
The Stinger MANPADS have been widely used in local conflicts in recent decades. It was also used by the Mujahideen during the war in Afghanistan against Soviet troops. During the first two weeks of using the Stinger MANPADS at the beginning of 1987, they shot down three Su-25s, killing two pilots. By the end of 1987, losses amounted to almost an entire squadron - 8 aircraft. Thermal traps did not save the vehicle from an already launched missile, and the powerful warhead very effectively hit the Su-25 engines, causing a fire, as a result of which the stabilizer control cables burned out.

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