Quote:
Originally Posted by Itse
Stingers aren't even in production anymore, they're basically obsolete tech for the US, and replacing them hasnt been a priority either.
Stingers primary purpose seems to be a slightly obsolete weapon to donate or sell. It's eighties tech.
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They're still the most advanced MANPAD the US has in its arsenal. They've had little use for them because they've had air supremacy in any conflict they've been in, but they're not just going to give them all away leaving themselves with nothing. What if another conflict happens in the next 5-6 years (which is about how long it's estimated before they're getting next-gen replacements)?
People seem to be coming at this from the perspective that the US will do almost anything to help Ukraine win, so using that logic they should send all of their Javelins/Stingers and a bunch of tanks and other heavy equipment. But so far that hasn't been the case at all. The US will happily send easily replaceable equipment and money to fund Ukraine's war effort because they want Ukraine to grind Russia down. But so far they haven't shown the slightest inclination that they're willing to compromise their own position or risk escalation in any way.