The FIM-92 Stinger is an American-made man-portable air defense system (MANPADS) that has been a staple in the arsenals of many countries, including Pakistan, since the early 1980s.41 It is a “fire-and-forget” weapon, a key advantage that allows the operator to take cover immediately after launch. The Stinger uses a passive infrared and ultraviolet (IR/UV) homing seeker to lock onto the heat signature of a target’s engine. The missile’s dual-sensor system gives it enhanced resistance to flares and other infrared countermeasures. The FIM-92 is launched from a shoulder-fired tube and is powered by a two-stage rocket motor. A small launch motor ejects the missile a safe distance from the operator before the main rocket engine ignites. The Stinger missile has an effective range of up to 8 kilometers and can engage targets at altitudes up to 3.5 kilometers. Its combat effectiveness was famously demonstrated during the Soviet-Afghan War, where it was successfully used by Mujahideen fighters to shoot down Soviet aircraft and helicopters. The Stinger has undergone several upgrades over its service life, with later variants featuring improved guidance, longer range, and top-attack capabilities against armored targets. Its compact size, portability, and reliable performance make it an indispensable asset for ground forces seeking protection against low-flying aerial threats.
- Type: Man-Portable Air Defense System (MANPADS)
- Guidance: Passive infrared and ultraviolet (IR/UV) homing
- Engagement Range: 4 to 8 km
- Altitude Coverage: Up to 3.5 km
- Warhead: High-explosive (HE) with a contact and graze fuze
- Key Features: “Fire-and-forget” capability, highly portable, and effective against both aircraft and helicopters.
