Heat-seeking missiles emerged during World War II with German infrared guidance concepts, but it was the U.S. that fielded the successful AIM-9 Sidewinder in 1956, an air-to-air missile targeting aircraft engine heat. Adopted widely by NATO, it prompted Soviet counterparts like the K-13, and over time, these missiles advanced in range, accuracy, and countermeasure resistance, shaping modern air combat. | Historyinmemes

Slow motion AIM-9X Sidewinder missile shoots off the rail of an F-16 Fighting Falcon 🎥: 40th Flight Test Squadron via Tech. Sgt. Jon Ravin | PilotWife_3