Nimrod Sidewinder

Why does the Nimrod have the capability to use Sidewinder? And which crew member on board the aircraft is tasked with using it? I take that there is no HUD on the aircraft, so how is it launched, off boresight using a dedicated helmet?

How effective would it be against an incoming AA-12 or similar?

I undestand the capabilty is retained on the MRA4, according to the 2000 edition of a Flight International directory I have (I think it is called Weapons and Systems Directory, don’t have it to hand). Wether the RAF will operate it is another matter.

Jay
UK