4. Mistral: European Innovation in Air Defense
Several novel ideas presented by the French-designed Mistral MANPADS raised new benchmarks for portable air defence systems. Designed in the 1980s, the Mistral included cutting-edge signal processing capability and superior imaging infrared technology. The special architecture of the system lets for both shoulder-launched operation and incorporation with naval and vehicle-mounted systems. Its Mach 2.6 high-speed missile and effective range of more than 6 km give operators great engagement power against both fixed-wing and rotary aircraft. The enhanced proximity fuze and creative warhead design of the Mistral greatly raise its likelihood of kill over past systems.
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