During engagement, the operator must maintain target acquisition with which system?

• A. The radar array.
• B. The crew microphone.
• C. The infrared seeker.
• D. The flight computer.

Answer: (C)

Maintaining target acquisition is done with the infrared seeker. The Stinger uses a heat-seeking, infrared sensor to locate and track the target, so the operator keeps the target centered in the IR seeker’s field of view from lock-on through intercept. The seeker provides the real-time tracking data that guides the missile, while other systems like a crew microphone or a flight computer don’t perform the direct target acquisition role. The radar array isn’t involved in this weapon’s guidance, since Stinger is infrared-guided and relies on the IR seeker to maintain lock on the target.