Air Defense Artillery Employment, Stinger (FM 44-18)

Prior to the mid-1960s, Threat air forces were equipped mainly to provide air defense. Threat aircraft were limited in range and payload, being primarily designed as interceptors. In recent years the mission of the Threat air force has been expanded. Missions now include destroying friendly nuclear reserves and tactical air forces and providing tactical air support of ground forces. Through the 1960s, and with increasing tempo through the 1970s, Threat air forces have been receiving new aircraft and munitions with greatly improved offensive capabilities. Older aircraft have been modified to support new missions. This manual is designed to show how the Stinger platoon will train and fight. Chapters in this manual cover the following - The Air Treat, The Stinger Weapon, Organization and Command and Control, Communications, Stinger Employment Principles and Guidelines, Stinger Platoon Operations, Combat Operations, Stinger Defense in ADA Units, Support of Special Operations, Combat Service Support, Operations Security, NBC Defense, Manual Shorads Control System (MSCS), Small Arms in the Air Defense Role.