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