Combat Identification

The Combat Identification program (PE 0207420F) is an Air Force research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on advancing technologies that enable rapid and accurate identification of friendly platforms in both air and maritime domains. The primary goal of this program is to reduce the risk of fratricide and enhance operational effectiveness by ensuring that U.S. and allied forces can reliably distinguish friendly units from potential adversaries during complex operations. This is accomplished through the development, integration, and evaluation of cooperative identification technologies, such as advanced Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems.

A central objective of the program is to support the continued development and certification of the Mark XIIB IFF system, including the integration of Mode 5 Level 2 Broadcast and civil Mode S capabilities. The Department of Defense International AIMS Program Office (AIMSPO) serves as the executive agent responsible for system-level interoperability testing and certification of the Mark XIIB system. The AIMSPO also leads the development and integration of new IFF system capabilities and ensures that these systems meet established standards for functionality and interoperability across the Department of Defense (DoD) and allied services.

The program's efforts are closely aligned with both military and civil aviation requirements. The AIMSPO coordinates with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics (RTCA) to ensure that military IFF systems remain interoperable with civil air traffic control systems. The program also manages the assignment of civil Mode S addresses and military Mode 5 Platform Identification Numbers for all DoD platforms using these waveforms, supporting both U.S. and NATO operations.

Within the program, the IFF/ATC Test and Certification project specifically funds the development and maintenance of technical standards, as well as the execution of equipment and platform-level certifications for IFF capabilities. This includes supporting active Foreign Military Sales (FMS) cases, providing technical support to NATO's IFF Capabilities Team, and participating in international standards development for air traffic control and identification systems. The project also facilitates annual User Working Groups, which serve as forums for sharing solutions, providing training, and coordinating with users, NATO, combatant commands, and program offices.

A key justification for this line item is the ongoing need to update and certify IFF systems as new technologies and requirements emerge. Although Mode 5 IFF was mandated for full implementation by FY 2020, integration continues across various platforms, necessitating continued investment in testing, certification, and standards development. The program also supports the integration of newly fielded M-code GPS receivers into IFF equipment, further enhancing system resilience and security.

The acquisition strategy for Combat Identification emphasizes the use of multiple, competitive contract vehicles and prioritizes off-the-shelf technologies and non-developmental items (NDIs) where feasible. This approach is intended to accelerate the maturation of technology to a point where it can be demonstrated in realistic combat environments, thereby reducing risk and cost. The program is funded under Budget Activity 4, Advanced Component Development and Prototypes (ACD&P), reflecting its focus on evaluating integrated technologies and prototype systems in high-fidelity operational scenarios.