there are two kind of infrared guided missiles: -The LOAL (lock on after launch) meaning even if the missile seeker see nothing while it on the rail, it can still search around and find target after launch.
-The LOBL ( lock on before launch) meaning the missiles seeker must see and lock on to target before the pilot press the launch button. The missile can’t find target on its own.
My question is that: if LOBL missiles can’t find target on its own after launch. Then how can flares deceive them?. Wouldn’t they just remaining locked to the original target regardless of what appearing in the field of view?
-The LOBL ( lock on before launch) meaning the missiles seeker must see and lock on to target before the pilot press the launch button. The missile can’t find target on its own.
My question is that: if LOBL missiles can’t find target on its own after launch. Then how can flares deceive them?. Wouldn’t they just remaining locked to the original target regardless of what appearing in the field of view?