Which type of forces primarily use IFF equipment?

Military aircraft primarily use Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) equipment because IFF plays a crucial role in combat and defense operations. This system enables military aircraft to distinguish between friendly and hostile units by sending out signals and receiving responses. In the context of military operations, where the environment can be chaotic and the risk of friendly fire is significant, having a reliable means to identify friendly forces is essential for the safety and effectiveness of missions.

Commercial airlines, naval ships, and ground vehicles do utilize various forms of identification and surveillance systems, but their application of IFF is not as critical as it is in military aviation. Civilian aviation safety relies more on radar and air traffic control systems to ensure safe operations, rather than on IFF, which is tailored specifically for military engagement scenarios. This distinction emphasizes the importance of IFF in avoiding conflicts and ensuring accurate situational awareness among military aircraft.