Shoulder Fired Missiles Beyond Infantry Use

While called man-portable, these shoulder-launched missiles are versatile enough to be fired from warships, vehicles, and tripods. They provide a surprising defense against low-flying aircraft and cruise missiles.

These weapons were originally designed for individual soldiers to carry into difficult terrain where larger air defense systems could not travel. Because of their lightweight and compact nature, military forces have adapted them for use on everything from small patrol boats to armored trucks. This flexibility makes them a persistent threat to helicopters and cruise missiles across various battlefields. They effectively turn a single soldier into a high-tech deterrent against modern aircraft.