What are MANPADS, the portable missiles bringing down Russian aircraft?
Britain is supplying Ukraine with its latest generation of STARStreak missiles
MAN-PORTABLE AIR DEFENCE SYSTEMS (MANPADS) are playing an unexpectedly important role in the war in Ukraine. These shoulder-fired missiles, typified by the American Stinger, are only effective against low-flying aircraft and at a range of a few kilometres. But they have scored a number of kills and are severely impeding Russian air operations. Now Ukrainian forces are getting an upgrade, in the form of the latest STARStreak missiles supplied by Britain. Why are MANPADS crucial to Ukraine’s defence, and what difference might the new missiles make?
Discover more
What is Kamala Harris’s record as a prosecutor?
Republicans say she was soft on crime. Progressives say she was too harsh
Can Donald Trump use songs against a musician’s will?
Many stars have complained, and some have filed lawsuits
What is the Fed’s preferred inflation measure?
The PCE gauge is broader and more dynamic than its better-known relative, the CPI
Will Taylor Swift’s endorsement of Kamala Harris matter?
Celebrity endorsements are unlikely to change voters’ minds. But they may boost turnout
Donald Trump says immigrants are eating Springfield’s pets. What?
He repeated the bizarre—and false—claim in his presidential debate against Kamala Harris
Who will lead Britain’s Conservative Party?
Here are the four candidates vying for the daunting job