US Army getting its sting back
The 7th Army Training Command's Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) of the US Army will soon begin observing, coaching and training soldiers using the FIM-92 Stinger Man-Portable, Air Defense System (MANPADS).
In preparation for the training, around 50 observer coach/trainers (OC/Ts) have attended their own training on the Stinger system at the Hohenfels Training Area.
The FIM-92 is being reintroduced to brigade combat teams across the army.
JMRC was the first combat training centre to receive the Stinger training for OC/Ts. JMRC will primarily observe, coach and train the individual two-man Stinger teams using the shoulder fired configuration, though the Avenger and other variants may also be used.
The Stinger teams will be evaluated on the mission-essential tasks of site placement, determining air avenues of approach, defending a critical location, de-conflicting engagements of enemy aircraft based on sector of fire and proper operation of the FIM-92 Stinger.
The FIM-92 Stinger IR-homing MANPADS is effective against helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, cruise missiles and fixed wing aircraft.
Lt Col Aaron Felter, the director of training and doctrine for the Air Defense Integrated Office, said: 'Bringing back the Stinger addresses a self-identified gap that the army created and has recognised. We're getting back to the basics and providing short range air defence to manoeuvre units.'
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
Lithuania set for Leopards and CV90s following latest order of Boxers
Lithuania, like several countries bordering Russia, has invested heavily in defence since the latter’s invasion of Ukraine. In the past 12 months, Lithuania has ordered GM200 air defence radars, Expal towed mortars and Mobile Short-Range Air Defence (MSHORAD) systems.
-
Rheinmetall to supply 81mm EIMOS mortar systems to Spain under $162 million deal
The 81mm EXPAL Integrated Mortar System (EIMOS) is a platform-based system which will be used by Spain’s army, navy and air force.
-
Polaris upgrades MRZR for heavier payloads and announces US Air Force contracts
A reinforced version of the 6x6 MRZR ultra-light mobility vehicle can transport a payload of approximately 1,360kg and munitions such as Northrop Grumman’s Jackal.
-
EOS looks to improve CUAS capability as further development and deployment continue
EOS Defense Systems remote weapon stations (RWS) have been in service in Ukraine. The company has seen users deploy it for CUAS roles in a war where drones have been heavily used.
-
Textron to make improvements to Ripsaw M5 and M3 UGVs
The company has been partnering with several suppliers to enhance the autonomy of its platforms.