RBS 70

RBS 70 was developed by Bofors, now associated with Saab, as a man-portable short-range air-defense system using laser beam-riding guidance. It entered Swedish service in the 1970s and has been exported widely. Unlike infrared MANPADS, RBS 70 does not chase heat signatures; the operator keeps the laser beam on target and the missile rides that beam, making it resistant to many flare countermeasures.

The system consists of a tripod launcher, sighting unit, missile, and associated support equipment. Later missiles such as Bolide increased range, ceiling, and target performance. Because guidance is command-to-line-of-sight through a laser beam, the system requires operator tracking throughout the engagement, but it can engage helicopters, aircraft, cruise missiles, and some drones with high resistance to infrared decoys.

Operationally, RBS 70 provides point defense for maneuver units, airfields, bases, and critical infrastructure. Its tripod and sight make it less shoulder-mobile than many MANPADS, but more precise and less vulnerable to simple countermeasures. The system has become a common short-range air-defense layer for countries that value controlled engagements, low collateral risk, and integration with local sensors.