Man-Portable Air-Defense Systems, or MANPADS, are compact, shoulder-fired surface-to-air missiles designed to take down low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and drones. Due to their portability, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness, they have become an integral part of modern infantry-based air defense systems. These systems are especially valuable in asymmetric warfare and have been widely used in conflicts around the world. Here, I examine five of the most powerful MANPADS currently in service globally.
Most Powerful MANPADS
My research shows that the 5 most powerful MANPADS in the world in 2025 are — FIM-92 Stinger, 9K333 Verba, QW-18, Mistral MANPADS, and RBS 70 NG
1. FIM-92 Stinger (United States)
The FIM-92 Stinger is arguably the most iconic and battle-proven MANPADS in the world. Developed by Raytheon in the United States, the Stinger has been in service since the early 1980s and is used by over 30 countries. Its combat debut during the Soviet-Afghan War showcased its lethality and changed the dynamics of aerial warfare.
Guidance System: Infrared homing with advanced counter-countermeasure (IRCCM) capabilities.
Effective Range: Approximately 4.8 km.
Speed: Up to Mach 2.2.
Warhead: High-explosive fragmentation.
The Stinger’s success lies in its “fire-and-forget” capability, allowing the operator to take cover immediately after launch. Modern variants also feature improved targeting accuracy and resistance to flares and electronic countermeasures.
In August 2024, the United States announced a $125 million military aid package to Ukraine, which included Stinger missiles, artillery ammunition, and anti-armor systems.
2. 9K38 Igla (SA-18 “Grouse”) – Russia
The Russian-made 9K38 Igla is the successor to the earlier Strela series of MANPADS and has proven to be a robust and widely exported system. It is known for its effectiveness in both conventional and guerrilla warfare environments.
Guidance System: Infrared homing with enhanced countermeasure resistance.
Effective Range: Up to 5.2 km.
Speed: Around 600 m/s.
Warhead: High-explosive fragmentation.
The Igla is compact and easily deployable, designed for single-operator use. Its reliability and simplicity have made it a go-to choice for many armed forces across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
3. Mistral (France)
France’s Mistral system represents a sophisticated approach to MANPADS, offering superior accuracy and target discrimination. Developed by MBDA, this missile is used both in shoulder-launched form and integrated into vehicle and naval platforms.
Guidance System: Infrared homing with image processing.
Effective Range: Approximately 6 km.
Speed: Up to Mach 2.5.
Warhead: High-explosive with proximity fuze.
Mistral missiles are known for their high hit probability and strong resistance to countermeasures, including flares and jamming. Its warhead is powerful enough to destroy fast-moving, armored aerial targets.
4. RBS 70 (Sweden)
Sweden’s RBS 70 system is unique among modern MANPADS due to its use of laser guidance instead of the more common infrared homing. This gives it significant advantages in terms of resistance to electronic warfare and countermeasures.
Guidance System: Laser beam riding (manual tracking).
Effective Range: Up to 8 km.
Speed: Around Mach 2.
Warhead: High-explosive with proximity fuze.
Although the RBS 70 requires the operator to maintain line-of-sight during flight, it is extremely difficult to jam. Its high engagement range and pinpoint accuracy make it ideal for defending key infrastructure and mobile units from air attack.
5. FN-6 (China)
China’s FN-6 is part of the HN-series MANPADS family and has rapidly gained attention for its performance and affordability. It has been supplied to various countries and non-state actors, showing up in several recent conflicts.
Guidance System: Infrared homing with all-aspect attack capability.
Effective Range: Approximately 6 km.
Speed: Roughly 600 m/s.
Warhead: High-explosive fragmentation.
The FN-6 is designed for ease of use and is capable of engaging targets head-on as well as from the rear, making it versatile in complex battlefield scenarios. Its modular design allows for various configurations and upgrades.
Conclusion
As air power continues to evolve, MANPADS remain a crucial tool for ground forces to counter airborne threats. The systems listed above represent the pinnacle of MANPADS development in terms of lethality, guidance technology, and battlefield utility. Whether used to defend against close-air support, transport aircraft, or UAVs, these weapons continue to shape the dynamics of modern combat, giving infantry units a potent punch against high-tech aerial assets.
You can also read our insights on the 5 fastest missiles in the world.
