'The real question is whether China sent it to ratchet up tensions,' a defense expert told Newsweek.
"An AAM [advanced air mobility] is designed to take out air targets," she said."A HIMAR is a ground missile; by definition, it's not designed for that. Just because they're both missiles doesn't mean that they're interchangeable.
Since the balloon is inflated with helium, Cohen said that using an incendiary bullet is a"no go" because helium is not flammable, the skin of the balloon is also oftentimes not flammable, and the high altitude means low oxygen, which equates to less material to burn. "Firing from air allows for closer range and a greater chance of actually hitting the balloon, which is already traveling on a relatively unpredictable path. The AIM-9x has a really fancy seeker head and thrust engine, which gives the missile greater maneuverability and sight when it is fired."
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