Military 101: Powerful Air-to-Air Missiles: A Comparative Study of Technological Evolution
The first operational guided air-to-air missile was the Hughes AIM-4 Falcon, developed by the United States Air Force. Its development began in 1946, and it was first tested in 1949. The AIM-4 Falcon was designed during a time when the concept of air combat was rapidly changing, reflecting the technological advancements of the era. This missile marked a significant milestone in military aviation, setting the stage for the development of more advanced air-to-air missile systems used in modern warfare. Image Source: Estrella Warbirds Museum