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Armed Forces: Target Identification

Answer

The department’s combat identification programme includes an implementation strategy. For the target identification element of capability, it is clear that no single system would address all the issues within the priority areas of ground-to-ground and air-to-ground engagements. Together with allies, we have therefore identified a range of potential target identification technologies. Credible target identification systems based on these interoperable technologies will be considered and timetabled plans developed as appropriate for approval at investment decision points. We are working closely with allies to co-ordinate the fielding of interoperable national combat identification solutions, such as the battlefield target identification system (BTIS). Through NATO, we receive information about allies’ plans and we continue to press as necessary for timely decisions, although ultimately each nation’s planning process will determine outcomes. To date, expenditure of some £11 million is attributable to the UK BTIS programme and associated risk reduction work. Exercise Urgent Quest in 2005 provided allies with the key information to enable decisions to be made on the selection of solutions for target identification requirements, including the UK’s BTIS programme. Moreover, it identified the technologies that should not be pursued as they were immature or lacked utility.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

4325; 693 c165WA

Session

2006-07

Subjects

Defence equipment Expenditure International cooperation Procurement Military alliances Military exercises Identification friend or foe systems

Contains statistics

Yes

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk