What statement accurately reflects the characteristics of IR guided missiles?

The statement that IR guided missiles provide a stealth advantage during targeting is accurate because these missiles utilize infrared (IR) technology to home in on heat signatures emitted by targets, such as engines or missile exhaust. This allows them to effectively target without necessarily relying on visible light or radar, which can be more detectable by opposing forces. The use of IR guidance facilitates engagement in situations where stealth is crucial, as it can minimize the chances of detection during the missile's approach.

Conversely, the other statements do not align with the characteristics of IR guided missiles. For instance, while some IR systems may emit signals during specific phases of flight, many are designed to operate passively, avoiding continuous emissions that could reveal their presence. Additionally, IR guided missiles are capable of detecting a wider spectrum of heat signatures beyond just visible light, including infrared radiation. Lastly, these missiles are typically designed for agility and compactness, enabling easier concealment and deployment rather than being larger and harder to hide. Thus, emphasizing the stealth advantage provided by IR guidance is critical in understanding the operational effectiveness of these types of missiles.