The Indian Army is currently making significant adjustments in its air defence strategies by adapting its Man-Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) to address the increasing threat posed by sub-sonic cruise missiles. This shift highlights the need for advanced defensive measures in modern warfare.
MANPADS are portable surface-to-air missiles designed to be fired by individuals or small teams against aircraft. These systems, often referred to as shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles, typically measure less than 2 meters in length and weigh around 20 kg.
The development of MANPADS began in the 1960s, with the United States deploying the Redeye and the Soviet Union deploying the Strela systems. These innovations aimed to equip infantry units with effective anti-aircraft capabilities. As of now, approximately 105 countries operate MANPADS, while only 12, including India, are manufacturers of these systems.
There are three primary types of MANPADS:
A typical MANPADS consists of:
The Indian Army's strategic shift to enhance its MANPADS capabilities reflects a broader trend in military technology where nations are increasingly focusing on portable air defence systems. These advancements are crucial for countering emerging aerial threats, particularly from sub-sonic cruise missiles.
As military conflicts evolve, the role of MANPADS in air defence becomes more prominent. The Indian Army's commitment to modernizing its air defence frameworks underscores the importance of remaining vigilant against diverse aerial threats. Understanding the capabilities and evolution of MANPADS is essential for grasping current military strategies.
Q1. What are MANPADS used for?
Answer: MANPADS are used to target and destroy aircraft, providing infantry units with portable air defence against various aerial threats.
Q2. How do infrared seeking MANPADS work?
Answer: Infrared seeking MANPADS detect the heat from an aircraft's engine, allowing them to lock onto and track their target effectively.
Q3. Which countries produce MANPADS?
Answer: Only 12 countries, including India, are known to manufacture MANPADS, while about 105 countries operate them globally.
Q4. Why is the Indian Army updating its MANPADS?
Answer: The Indian Army is updating its MANPADS to counter the increasing threat of sub-sonic cruise missiles and enhance its overall air defence capabilities.
Q5. What types of MANPADS exist?
Answer: The three main types of MANPADS are command line-of-sight, laser-guided, and infrared seekers, each utilizing different guidance technologies.
Question 1: What is the primary function of MANPADS?
A) To provide naval support
B) To target aircraft
C) To act as ground artillery
D) To serve as reconnaissance tools
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which technology do infrared seeking MANPADS utilize?
A) Radar tracking
B) Laser guidance
C) Heat detection
D) GPS navigation
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: Which country is NOT a producer of MANPADS?
A) India
B) China
C) Russia
D) Canada
Correct Answer: D
Question 4: What year did the United States first deploy MANPADS?
A) 1960
B) 1970
C) 1980
D) 1990
Correct Answer: A
Question 5: Which system is an example of MANPADS?
A) Patriot missile
B) Stinger
C) Tomahawk
D) Aegis
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What is the weight of a typical MANPADS?
A) 10 kg
B) 20 kg
C) 30 kg
D) 40 kg
Correct Answer: B
Question 7: Which type of MANPADS follows a laser beam?
A) Command line-of-sight
B) Infrared seekers
C) Heat-seeking
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: A
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