Quote Originally Posted by Entropy View Post
Starstreak's guidance system is technically a semi-automatic command line of sight (SACLOS) system. The operator has to illuminated the target with the laser, which the individual munitions home in on. This is fundamentally different, and far superior, to beam-rider guidance. Although there is not counter to this weapon currently (beyond tactics like terrain masking, obscurants, ect.), the fact that it relies on a homing sensor and logic means that a countermeasure for it can probably be developed. Regardless, this system is manufactured by a friendly state and is not in the hands of potential enemies, so, for now at least, the point it moot.

As for UAV's, I think I've lost your point somewhere along the way.
Starstreak is not semi-active laser-guided.
It IS a laser beam rider.

Each dart is guided independently using a double laser beam riding system.
http://www.army-technology.com/projects/starstreak/

High precision laser beam riding guidance which
is immune to all known countermeasures
Thales' Starstreak HVM product brochure

Even SACLOS does NOT illuminate the target. Only SAL and SAR guidance does so.

Repeat: Starstreak = LASER BEAM RIDER
And it's cheaper than Stinger, btw.