surface-to-air

American  

[sur-fis-too-air] / ˈsɜr fɪs tuˈɛər /

adjective

1. (of a missile, message, etc.) capable of traveling from the surface of the earth to a target in the atmosphere.

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adverb

1. from the surface of the earth to a target in the atmosphere.

   an antimissile missile fired surface-to-air.

surface-to-air British  

adjective

1. of or relating to a missile launched from the surface of the earth against airborne targets

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Etymology

Origin of surface-to-air

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Sources close to US intelligence services told US broadcaster CNN Iran had deployed additional troops and defence systems to the area in recent weeks, including MANPAD-type surface-to-air missiles and mines.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

That same surface-to-air system has proved to be a threat to the MQ-9s in their operations over Iran, military officials said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 16, 2026

"It is unlikely that the significant blast damage seen here was caused by an Iranian surface-to-air missile, which carry relatively small explosive warheads," director of Armament Research Services, Jenzen Jones said.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2026

Japan's defence minister upped the ante by saying on Tuesday that Tokyo planned to deploy surface-to-air missiles on one of its remote western islands located near Taiwan by early 2031.

From Barron's • Feb. 27, 2026

Air defense units received Soviet equipment between 1948 and 1961, including that required at a few surface-to-air missile sites.

From Area Handbook for Albania by Elpern, Sarah Jane