The Most Advanced ManPAD, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the ManPAD you think is the most advanced!

Updated on May 3, 2024 06:16

In modern conflicts, the evolution and deployment of Man Portable Air Defense systems (ManPADs) play a crucial role in shaping both defensive and offensive tactics. As these technologies advance, understanding their capabilities becomes essential for both military experts and enthusiasts. This kind of knowledge can influence strategies and procurement decisions across nations. On this site, users have the opportunity to voice their opinions and vote on what they consider the most advanced ManPAD, shaping a community-driven ranking. By participating, users contribute to a collective intelligence resource that benefits others looking for up-to-date information on these critical defense tools. Your votes help in forming a comprehensive picture of current technological standings in the field of ManPADs.

What Is the Most Advanced ManPAD?

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69
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U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daniel Barker, VIRIN 0811-01-N-4774B-237 · Public domain

FIM-92 Stinger

The Stinger is widely regarded as one of the most advanced and effective Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS) in the world due to its versatility, mobility, and effectiveness against a wide range of threats. It is used by military forces around the globe and has been extensively combat tested.
The FIM-92 Stinger is a portable infrared surface-to-air missile (SAM) system designed to provide short-range air defense against various threats, including low-flying aircraft. It is considered one of the most advanced Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (ManPADS) in the world.

Weight: 10.1 kg (22 lb)

Length: 1.52 m (5 ft)

Diameter: 70 mm (2.75 in)

Warhead: 3 kg (6.6 lb) blast-fragmentation

Range: Up to 8 km (5 mi)
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35
votes
Vitaly V. Kuzmin · CC BY-SA 4.0

9K38 Igla

The Igla is a Russian-made MANPADS that is known for its advanced guidance system, which allows it to track and engage targets with great precision. It is also highly effective against low-flying aircraft and helicopters, making it a popular choice among militaries worldwide.
The 9K38 Igla, also known as the SA-18 Grouse, is a portable infrared homing surface-to-air missile system. It is designed to engage and destroy low-flying aircraft and helicopters. The system features advanced technologies that ensure reliable performance and increased effectiveness.

Weight: 18.2 kg (missile with a launcher)

Length: 1.86 meters

Diameter: 72 mm

Warhead: High explosive fragmentation

Warhead weight: 1.14 kg
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19
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QW-18

The QW-18 is a Chinese-made MANPADS that is notable for its advanced infrared seeker and ability to engage targets at ranges of up to 6 km. It has been in service with the Chinese military since the early 2000s and is considered a highly effective system.
The QW-18 is a highly advanced Man-portable air-defense system (ManPAD) designed for engaging airborne threats. It is manufactured by the Chinese aerospace and defense company, Norinco.

Weight: 17 kg

Effective Range: up to 5.5 km

Maximum Altitude Engagement: 4.8 km

Minimum Altitude Engagement: 10 m

Targeting System: Infrared homing with dual-channel optics
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12
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Mistral

The Mistral is a French-made MANPADS that is known for its advanced guidance system and high level of accuracy. It is widely regarded as one of the most effective systems in the world, and is used by militaries in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
The Mistral is a portable surface-to-air missile system designed for engaging low-flying aerial targets. It is known for its advanced technology and high effectiveness in air defense.

Weight: 18 kg

Length: 1.86 m

Diameter: 90 mm

Warhead Type: High-explosive fragmentation

Maximum Range: 6 km
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18
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HJ-12

The HJ-12 is a Chinese-made MANPADS that is notable for its advanced guidance system and ability to engage targets at ranges of up to 8 km. It is also highly effective against armored vehicles and has been in service with the Chinese military since the early 2010s.
The HJ-12 is a highly advanced Man-Portable Air Defense System (ManPAD) developed by China. It is designed to engage low-flying aircraft and armored targets with high precision and lethality.

Type: Man-Portable Air Defense System (ManPAD)

Guidance System: Semi-Active Laser Homing

Range: Up to 10 km (6.2 miles)

Payload: High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) Warhead

Maximum Speed: Mach 3
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12
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RBS-70

The RBS-70 is a Swedish-made MANPADS that is known for its advanced guidance system and high level of accuracy. It is widely used by militaries around the world and is particularly effective against helicopters and low-flying aircraft.
The RBS-70 is a sophisticated Man-Portable Air Defense System (ManPAD) that is designed for short-range anti-aircraft defense. It was initially developed by the Swedish defense company Saab Bofors Dynamics. It is widely recognized as one of the most advanced ManPAD systems in the world.

Range: up to 8 km

Altitude: up to 5,000 m

Missile Speed: Mach 1.6

Missile Weight: 13.8 kg

Target Acquisition: Thermal Imaging Sight (TIS)
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6
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FIM-43 Redeye

Hughes Aircraft Company

The Redeye is an American-made MANPADS that was first introduced in the 1950s. It is notable for being one of the first heat-seeking missiles developed for use by ground forces, and was highly effective against Soviet aircraft during the Cold War.
The FIM-43 Redeye is a man-portable air defense system (MANPAD) developed during the Cold War. It was designed to provide infantry units with the ability to engage low-flying enemy aircraft and helicopters. The weapon system was widely used by the United States military and its allies in the 1970s and 1980s.

Weight: 14.6 kg

Warhead: 3.2 kg

Range: 4.5 km

Velocity: Mach 1.6

Guidance System: Infrared homing
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4
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Vitaly V. Kuzmin · CC BY-SA 4.0

SA-24 Grinch

The SA-24 is a Russian-made MANPADS that is known for its advanced guidance system and ability to engage targets at ranges of up to 6 km. It is also highly effective against low-flying aircraft and helicopters, and has been in service with the Russian military since the early 2000s.
The SA-24 Grinch is a highly advanced Man-Portable Air Defense System (ManPAD) designed for military use. It is a shoulder-fired missile system capable of engaging low-flying aircraft and helicopters. The system offers improved capabilities over its predecessors with enhanced range, accuracy, and countermeasures.

Missile range: Up to 6 km

Maximum altitude: 4.5 km

Warhead type: High-explosive fragmentation

Missile speed: Mach 2.5

Lock-on type: Passive infrared homing
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6
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Starstreak

The Starstreak is a British-made MANPADS that is notable for its advanced guidance system and high level of accuracy. It is widely used by militaries around the world and is particularly effective against helicopters and low-flying aircraft.
The Starstreak is a highly advanced Man-Portable Air-Defense System (ManPAD) designed for engaging aircraft and helicopters at short range. It is known for its exceptional speed and accuracy, making it a potent weapon in modern warfare.

Type: Man-Portable Air-Defense System

Origin: United Kingdom

Weight: 15.5 kg (34.17 lb)

Length: 1.475 m (58.07 in)

Warhead: High-Explosive
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8
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FIM-43C Redeye II

United States

The Redeye II is an upgraded version of the FIM-43 Redeye that was introduced in the 1970s. It is notable for its improved guidance system and ability to engage targets at ranges of up to 5 km. It was used extensively by US forces during the Gulf War and is still in service with some militaries today.
The FIM-43C Redeye II is an advanced Man-Portable Air Defense System (ManPADS) developed by the United States. It is a surface-to-air missile system designed to engage and destroy low-flying aircraft.

Weight: 16.3 kg

Length: 1.53 m

Diameter: 70 mm

Warhead: HE-fragmentation

Range: 4.5 km

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Discussion

Ranking factors for advanced ManPAD

Range

The operational range of the missile, or the maximum distance it can engage the target, is a crucial factor. A longer range ManPADS generally indicates higher lethality and effectiveness.
Altitude engagement

The ability of ManPADS to engage targets at various altitudes. Higher altitude engagement capability enables the system to target more aircraft types, such as helicopters, UAVs, and low-flying fixed-wing aircraft.
Guidance system

The type of guidance system used by the ManPADS, such as infrared, laser, or radar guidance. Advanced guidance systems contribute to better targeting accuracy and higher probability of hitting the target.
Countermeasures resistance

The ability of ManPADS to resist electronic countermeasures deployed by enemy aircraft, such as flares or infrared jammers. Advanced ManPADS have better resistance to countermeasures, which increases their effectiveness.
Missile speed

Higher missile speed not only reduces the time it takes to reach its target but also makes it difficult for the target to evade or deploy countermeasures effectively.
Warhead size and type

A larger and more powerful warhead can cause more significant damage to the target, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the ManPADS.
Mobility and portability

The ease with which ManPADS can be transported and deployed by infantry is an essential factor. Lighter and more compact systems are easier to carry and can be set up more rapidly in the field.
Reliability and maintainability

Advanced ManPADS should have a high rate of reliability and be easy to maintain in various operational environments, ensuring consistent performance and reducing the risk of malfunctions.
Operator training and ease of use

Ease of use and training requirements for ManPADS operators can also be a factor in ranking systems. A well-designed ManPADS should be simple to operate, which improves the likelihood of success during engagements.
Cost-effectiveness

The cost of acquiring, operating, and maintaining the ManPADS should be balanced against its effectiveness and capabilities. An advanced system that is prohibitively expensive or has limited operational value may not be considered an ideal option.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most advanced ManPAD. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or ManPAD is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2489 views
183 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each ManPAD once every 24 hours. The rank of each ManPAD is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most advanced manpad

Background Information: Man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) are shoulder-fired missiles that are used to shoot down low-flying aircrafts. They are commonly used by military forces and terrorist groups around the world. Since their introduction in the 1960s, MANPADS have evolved significantly, becoming more advanced and effective over time. The most advanced MANPADS available today are equipped with advanced technologies such as infrared seekers, proximity fuses, and sophisticated guidance systems. These features enable these weapons to track and destroy enemy aircraft more efficiently and accurately than ever before. The top contenders for the title of the most advanced MANPADS include the Russian-made Igla-S, the American-made FIM-92 Stinger, and the Chinese-made QW-18. Each of these weapons has its unique features and capabilities, making them popular choices among military forces around the world. Overall, the most advanced MANPADS are essential tools for modern military operations, providing soldiers with the means to neutralize enemy aircraft and protect troops on the ground. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more advanced and sophisticated MANPADS in the near future.