I know it sounds weird, but yes. They can use a certain targeting method to home in on a light source that’s not the sun. The sun beaming on the bright white balloon against a blue background, the targeting brain in a modern aim 9 can tell the difference.
Also, the pilot can look through his visor and the missile travels where he’s looking
Thanks
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Also, the pilot can look through his visor and the missile travels where he’s looking”
Source? I don’t see that in the specs from here:
https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104557/aim-9-sidewinder/