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?
How drones and video-game techniques are coming together in Ukraine’s war
The idea of the body count evolves
Why are India and Pakistan fighting over water?
After terror attacks India has suspended a water-sharing treaty
How will mines dropped by drones change warfare?
They make attacks on tanks more precise and troops easier to trap
What do Greenlanders think of being bought?
Donald Trump’s desire for Greenland, and a shabby visit by his son, reignite the independence debate
What would Donald Trump gain from seizing the Panama Canal?
The president-elect claims the crossing is controlled by China and rips off American consumers
Where does Santa come from?
How a miracle-working Greek bishop, Dutch folk figure and early New York icon became the ubiquitous symbol of Christmas