Footage of a Ukrainian operated Stinger MANPADS intercepts a Russian Shahed Kamikaze drone. The American-produced FIM-92 Stinger has been in service since 1981 and the current version of the missile has an effective range of about three miles. The Shahed is designed to be launched in multiples of at least five so as to overwhelm air defenses and to consume resources. There is conflicting information regarding the respective price tags of these two systems, so it is difficult to determine who wins monetarily in this battle. A $120,000 Javelin destroying a multi-million-dollar tank is a clear win, but I am unsure who comes out on top in this contest. For the Ukrainians, I am sure the cost is worth it as long as the Shahed is not able to plow into a power plant or a school.

About the Author

Cam

Cam served as an infantry officer in the Marine Corps, deploying to the Horn of Africa and participating in combat operations in Iraq. He currently works in the maritime industry and in the defense sector as an instructor of combined arms planning and operations. An avid sailor, Cam founded and directs Triumph Sailing, a nonprofit that supports veterans and first responders through adventure and fellowship on the water. Triumph Sailing is preparing for the 2024 season of sailing on Galveston Bay and in the Gulf of Mexico. You can support the mission and next year's sailing season at Tri-Sail.Org.