Indra to modernise Spanish Army’s air defence system with advanced IFF technology

The IFF system, a critical component of air defence, works by interrogating aircraft to determine whether they are friendly or could pose a threat. The system uses encrypted communication to ensure the security of the identification process, minimising the risk of friendly fire while increasing situational awareness and protecting allied aircraft.

This contract follows an open bidding process in June and will see the integration of the Mode 5/S IFF radar systems. Mode 5 is an advanced NATO standard that replaces the older Mode 4. It is designed to be more secure, making it harder for adversaries to intercept the signals. The encryption codes are regularly updated to maintain security during joint military operations.

The new Mode 5 not only identifies whether an aircraft is friendly or hostile but also provides more detailed information, such as the aircraft’s position, identification number, and callsign. This added data supports safer and more efficient military operations, allowing for selective interrogations that reduce unnecessary radio emissions and increase operational stealth.

Indra will deploy the I50D Interrogator, a next-generation IFF model, for air defence systems that require rapid mobility and easy deployment. The technology will be integrated into the current light and medium-sized anti-aircraft artillery operations centres, renewing systems such as the MISTRAL missile launchers and Skydor firing directions, as well as the medium-range HAWK missile batteries.

Indra’s IFF systems have been implemented on air, land, and naval platforms for military forces worldwide, and this latest project reinforces its position as a key player in the air defence technology market. This modernisation is part of Indra’s broader “Leading the Future” strategic plan, which identifies ground-based air defence solutions as a core area for growth and development.

The upgraded IFF systems will provide the Spanish Army with a more reliable, secure, and capable air defence system, ensuring its readiness to respond to any airborne threat.

Source: Indra.