The Army’s foremost mobile shoot-on-the-move air defense weapon is the short-range Avenger air defense system, which operates at full automation. It is an effortlessly transportable, lightweight, and extremely mobile surface-to-air missile fire unit comprised of two missile pods containing eight Stinger missiles. It engages in the acquisition, identification, and tracking of targets (fixed-wing aircraft or low-flying helicopters) whether they are in motion or at rest.

The Avenger, when affixed to a versatile, high-mobility wheeled vehicle, is capable of functioning amidst severe weather circumstances. Targets are located by its infrared system, computer, communications equipment, and laser range finder, both during the day and at night.

The Avenger turret is readily adaptable to various combat vehicles, including track vehicles, trucks, and trailers, and can also function autonomously when operated remotely. Its highly automated system assists the operator with target identification, tracking, location, and missile engagement in a timely and effective manner. The overall efficacy of the system is enhanced through the automated implementation of lead angle and superelevation during missile launch. Avengers can be pallet-mounted and airlifted by helicopter; they can also be launched from tactical aircraft.

In 1988, Boeing successfully delivered the initial production unit of the Avenger, and by 2002, the Army, Marine Corps, and National Guard had received over 1,100 Avenger units. Production of Avenger, which will be upgraded with new products, is scheduled to continue beyond 2005.

.

.