German IFF 1940
 

Hi guys

What type of IFF, if any, did Luftwaffe aircraft carry in 1940? And what did they develop after 1940?

Obviously this could attract a very technical response, so please keep it simple for those simple-minded people such as yours truly.

Cheers
Brian

Re: German IFF 1940
 

Brian,

As far as I know IFF was clearly not (operationally) used in 1940. Radio technology had not reached that level of sophistication yet. I remember having read that towards the end of the war first IFF equipment was introduced, although I'm not entirely sure whether this was also by the Luftwaffe or only on allied side.

Regards, Pieter

Re: German IFF 1940
 

Development work was started around this time period but it wasn't until later in the war that a set designated FuG 25a Erstling was in use. I am having difficulty locating a clear explanation of its use in English.



Ed

Re: German IFF 1940
 

The RAF had an IFF transponder in the the BoB, didn't they (the name "Pipsqueak" rings bells).

Re: German IFF 1940
 

Nick,

Yes they did. Technology from about 1935 if memory serves, but only rushed into production after the debacle of September 6, 1939. The Lw had nothing similar at that stage - with no ground-control system then in place what would have been the point ?

Re: German IFF 1940
 

Many thanks guys

You've confirmed my suspicions.

Cheers
Brian