Advanced Technology in Identification Friend-or-Foe Systems

Advanced Technology in Identification Friend-or-Foe Systems

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Identifying the forces at the battlefield, differentiating friendly forces from the enemy, is a crucial capability. Identification Friend-or-Foe (IFF) systems provide time-critical insights that reduce friendly fire incidents, support mission success, and save lives – especially in hostile environments. 

The US Navy has awarded BAE Systems a contract for Identification Friend-or-Foe spares for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft, an all-weather, carrier-capable tactical airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft. 

Under the $26 million contract, the company will provide Beamforming Networks (BFNs), an integral part of antenna control for the AN/APX-122A IFF Interrogator system, onboard the tactical aircraft.

The systems are expected to provide situational awareness and early warning for U.S. Navy sailors and warfighters, according to BAE Systems’ announcement. “The Advanced Hawkeye is essential for battle management command and control, and our interrogator systems enable operators to identify friendly forces and make informed decisions in a variety of threat environments.”

The IFF system provides positive identification of friendly aircraft, giving E-2D Advanced Hawkeye operators the situational awareness they need to safely complete their missions. These missions include command and control, border security, search and rescue, and missile defense. 

The IFF system is produced exclusively for the E-2D, due to the extraordinary requirements for this aircraft.