Infra-red-guided [(IR)-guided)] weapons are no less important than laserguided munitions considering their usage in tactical warfare. While laserguided munitions are predominantly used in air-to-surface and surface-to-surface roles, IR-guided weapons are largely surface-to-air man-portable air defence systems (MANPADSs) and air-to-air missiles. The IR-guided air-to-air missile has been a feature of the fighter armament since 1950's and is likely to remain a key weapon for decades to come.