The reprogrammable Stinger microprocessor will not be used in fiscal 2023. Stinger’s current stocks are down. The Army plans to begin design, development and testing of the new missile in fiscal 2023, the U.S. Army Missiles and Space Executive Office stated in a summary on the U.S. government procurement site.
The policy framework calls for creating a new MANPADS that meets modern threats, including forces operating at a level close to the United States Army. These efforts are described as a bridge to meet the rising demand for improved short-range air defense to support maneuver forces on the move, the document notes.
Further details outline the technical traits of the new missile: it should reliably engage helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft and unmanned aerial systems, and be compatible with a universal launcher.
At the same time, the new missile must better detect targets, offer longer range and a higher probability of hit, while remaining safe for the shooter and easier to train and maintain. Current public sources list the Stinger’s maximum range at about 4,500 meters and an engagement height around 3,800 meters, with the Verba system achieving about 6,400 meters range and 4,500 meters altitude in comparable conditions.
Companies bidding to develop the new system are expected to present a digital model or combat demonstration in 2024, followed by in-action demonstrations and live-fire tests in 2026. If awarded, mass production could begin no later than 2027.
Igor Korotchenko, director of the World Arms Trade Analysis Center (TsAMTO), argues that the core motive behind replacing Stinger is the need to upgrade performance rather than replace a failed solution.
“Stinger has proven effective and reliable over time, yet advancing technology and new combat requirements compel modernization across launchers and sensors,” he said.
Alexander Ermakov, an expert with the Russian Council on International Relations (RIAC), contends that the Stinger system is outdated. He notes that the United States historically invested less in MANPADS development, relying on air superiority instead. In his view, the Stinger is not a routinely deployed asset in practice, and Congress later faced prior funding obstacles.
According to Ermakov, a pivotal reason for the renewed congressional approval is supply to Ukraine. He suggested that American stockpiles have been consumed and that the absence of an adequate inventory could influence funding decisions.
Korotchenko also highlighted that the new missile should feature a longer reach and improved target discrimination to avoid misidentifying heat traps as legitimate targets.
He described the modernization as yielding greater range and height of effective engagement, along with more reliable target acquisition based on refined selection principles.
Ermakov added that a new homing head (PGM) would be required to enhance target detection, noting that current infrared fuel and lubricants may be outdated. He emphasized the need for advanced fuels and lubricants to boost resistance to interference.
He warned that the new rocket would likely carry a higher price tag, with cost influenced by the complexity of tasks defined for the project. The overarching consideration, he suggested, is a shift from a previously uneven strategic balance to facing a more capable, technically advanced adversary—an important driver for renewed investment and development in the program.