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surface-to-air system

military weapon

Quick Summary

A surface-to-air missile (SAM) is a guided missile designed to intercept and destroy enemy aircraft or missiles from a ground-based launch position. SAMs were developed to defend ground locations against aerial attacks, particularly from high-altitude bombers that were beyond the reach of traditional anti-aircraft artillery.1

These systems can range from large, strategic defenses like the early Nike SAMs used against intercontinental ballistic missiles, to smaller, more portable versions like the Stinger missile, which can be fired from a soldier's shoulder to protect ground troops. Tactical SAMs are generally classified by their launch point (surface) and target (air). Many nations have developed their own SAM systems, integrating them with radar and fire-control equipment for target acquisition and aiming.123

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