How is a 'FRIENDLY' aircraft identified?

A 'FRIENDLY' aircraft is identified primarily through positive identification of its type and position. This method ensures that the aircraft in question can be definitively recognized as belonging to own forces, minimizing the risk of friendly fire incidents. Positive identification involves verifying parameters such as the aircraft's design, capabilities, and location against existing intelligence and friend or foe data. This comprehensive approach enhances situational awareness and helps in the correct execution of tactical maneuvers in a dynamic combat environment.

The other methods mentioned might supplement the identification process but don't solely ensure accuracy. For instance, electronic signature analysis can provide useful data about an aircraft's emissions and may assist in identification, but it doesn't confirm visual or operational context. Visual confirmation of personnel can be challenging at tactical ranges or in combat, where visibility may be compromised. Altitude and speed metrics alone provide limited context and may not be sufficient to establish the identity of an aircraft as friendly without corroborating factors. Hence, relying on positive identification of type and position is the most reliable method for ascertaining if an aircraft is friendly.