What does IFF stand for?

The term IFF stands for Identification Friend or Foe. It is a crucial system used primarily in military operations, particularly in air defense and friendly force identification. The IFF system helps distinguish between friendly and enemy forces, enhancing situational awareness and reducing the risk of friendly fire incidents. By employing transponders and interrogation signals, aircraft and ground units can identify themselves as friendly, aiding in command and control operations.

This capability is vital in complex operational environments, where the fast pace of engagements and the presence of multiple units can lead to confusion. The implementation of IFF systems facilitates more effective coordination and communication among forces, ensuring that engagements are conducted against appropriate targets. The focus of IFF systems is to enhance safety and operational effectiveness in military engagements.