Luckily, MANPADS are fairly sensitive instruments and tend to degrade if not properly cared for, even the sturdier Russian versions. They also are rather more conspicuous than RPGs and are harder to transport or transact.

However, the mere threat of insurgents in the area having MANPADS is enough. During the bad years in Iraq, 2004–2007, officers complained about having to send a big chunk of their unit to go conduct counter-MANPAD patrols beneath the flight path at Baghdad International. Big planes are particularly vulnerable during take off and landing.

Greg

SA-7, SA-14, SA-16, and SA-18 are much harder to access, and require greater training than an RPG. Only low-flying helicopters need fear unguided RPGs and then only if bad guys are lucky or fire massed volleys or both.

Is the KC-135R going to get the large aircraft IR countermeasures of the C-17 or the Apache system which I doubt weighs 500 lbs??

Does this mean they will routinely land KC-135R near insurgents? Don’t they normally fly high enough to avoid MANPAD? If not, why not?

Does this mean the USAF will deliver fuel to the Army/Marines at times?;) I’m kind of amazed if the A-10 lacks IR countermeasures other than flares!!

You are so very right.

Thanks,

Greg