? for the army guys

[Todd Wilson]

Observe this ebay item......

http://cgi.ebay.com/Brand-New-Special-Operations-BDU-Shirt-w-IFF-Tabs-LR_W0QQitemZ300123595209QQihZ020QQcategoryZ104023QQtcZphotoQQcmdZViewItem




What are the infrared reflective IFF tabs on the shirt shoulders for? I would assume some for of range finding or locating? See the good guys in the dark stuff? Someone explain?


Todd

[doctorpimp]

IFF: Identification Friend or Foe.
These are reflective tabs that only reflect infared light - the naked eye cannot see it.  Night vision goggles etc will pick up the reflection.

It's used to prevent fratercide (friendly fire incidents)

[Todd Wilson]

OK thanks for the info. I was wondering if it was something like that. Is it a certain freq. of IR so the enemy cant see? Its for Special Ops so they are just used for special missions?


Todd

[AKcharger]

Only problem is Bad guys have NVG's as well

[doctorpimp]

Only problem is Bad guys have NVG's as well

Yep, but that's why I always wore mine on the top of my helmet and on my back...  We have those and IR (InfraRed) glowsticks and a flashing IR beacon light.
Still didn't stop the A-10 from attacking my buddy's platoon last summer in Afghanistan.
They work for blue on blue attacks on the ground - but don't stop attacks from armoured vehicles with thermal imaging or planes.  Mistakes can still be made