What role does a transponder play in distinguishing friendly forces?

A transponder plays a critical role in identifying friendly forces by emitting a specific response when it receives an interrogation signal from radar systems. This capability is essential for distinguishing friendly aircraft from potential threats. The transponder's unique target codes allow it to communicate its identity, providing real-time information that can help prevent friendly fire incidents and improve situational awareness on the battlefield.

Through this identification process, the transponder enhances the safety and efficiency of military operations, allowing for better coordination among forces. Therefore, its primary function in this context is directly linked to identifying and confirming that the aircraft is friendly, which is why the assertion regarding target codes is accurate.