Difference Between IFF and ELT Antennas
                     Difference Between IFF and ELT Antennas 
Today, antenna technology is transforming the way we share and receive 
information from one place to another. Both IFF and ELT antennas are state-of-the-
art devices that provide outstanding wireless communication in their own 
applications. In this post, we are going to explore the difference between IFF and 
ELT antennas. 
IFF Antenna vs. ELT Antenna 
 
What is an IFF Antenna? 
An IFF antenna is also known as an Identification Friend or Foe antenna. It is used 
to identify friend or enemy aircraft to prevent incidents of friendly fire. Today, IFF 
antennas are crucial devices that help detect which devices are friendly and which 
are enemies. 
With the support of IFF antennas, the user can make the best operational decision 
during critical situations like combat and air traffic control. The Identification 
Friend or Foe Antenna can easily identify signals that are coming from aircraft, 
vehicles, and ships. And it lets the user know whether the aircraft or vehicle is 
friendly or not. 
What is an ELT Antenna? 
An ELT antenna is also known as an emergency locator transmitter antenna. It is 
used in emergencies to send distress signals to rescuers. When the main 
communication system fails, the advanced capabilities of the ELT antenna still 
empower it to send signals to satellites or nearby receivers to help locate the 
aircraft. 
Today, ELT antennas are not just information-sharing antennas. But they are life-
saving devices that prevent casualties and save lives. The Emergency 
Locator Transmitter Antenna can be easily installed on aircraft, helicopters, and 
small private jets. And it helps survivors to share emergency signals in emergencies. 
Difference Between IFF Antenna and ELT Antenna 
Today, many people get confused between IFF and ELT antennas because both are 
used in aircraft and involve radio signal transmission. This can sometimes make 
these wireless solutions difficult to distinguish. You need to understand that IFF 
antennas identify friendly or enemy aircraft for defence purposes. While ELT 
antennas send distress signals during a crash. To explore more, below we have 
talked about the difference between IFF antennas and ELT antennas. 
Size and Shape 
IFF antennas are usually larger and more complex in design. Because they handle 
high-frequency identification signals. They often have multiple elements or arrays 
mounted externally on military aircraft. You can easily recognize the Identification 
Friend or Foe Antenna through its flat panels, blades, or circular forms. 
While ELT antennas are smaller, simpler, and lightweight in design. This is just 
because they are used to transmitting only distress signals. You cannot expect them 
to receive the signals. The Emergency Locator Transmitter Antenna comes with a 
whip- or rod-shaped antenna. That makes it easy to mount on aircraft fuselages or 
tail sections. Their size is compact for proper installation. They provide minimal 
drag and stable signal transmission even during accidents or emergency conditions. 
Frequency Range 
IFF antennas identify aircraft and vehicles to know whether they are friend or foe. 
The Identification Friend or Foe Antenna works in higher frequency bands, typically 
between 960 MHz and 1215 MHz. This range allows quick identification and secure 
communication between military aircraft and radar systems. This versatile device 
accurately detects over a longer range with minimal interference. 
ELT antennas only share distress or emergency wireless signals. It performs in 
121.5 MHz, 243 MHz, and 406 MHz frequency bands. These frequencies are 
specifically reserved for emergency distress signals. That is transmitted to satellites 
and rescue centres. The Best ELT Antenna features a low frequency range and 
shares the signals that travel far, even in rough weather. This benefit ensures 
reliable location tracking during aircraft emergencies or crashes. 
Directional Pattern 
IFF antennas are mainly known as directional antennas. This means that it has a 
directional radiation pattern. And focuses signals in specific directions for precise 
target identification. IFF antennas enhance communication with radar systems. ELT 
antennas are omnidirectional antenna. And it radiates signals equally in all 
directions. It shares the signal with the satellite, no matter how the antenna is 
placed. The ELT blade antenna features 360-degree coverage. That makes it a 
perfect solution for offering high detection. 
Application 
IFF antennas are mainly used in the military and defence industries for safe 
operations. You can install the Best IFF Antenna in aircraft, naval ships, and air 
traffic control systems. That identifies friendly or enemy aircraft for better decision-
making. You can use it for secure communication and prevent accidental attacks 
during missions or operations. 
ELT antennas are used on commercial planes, helicopters, and private aircraft.They 
transmit distress signals during crashes or emergencies. That allows satellites and 
rescue teams to locate the aircraft quickly and start immediate search and rescue 
operations. ELT antennas improve passenger safety and emergency response. 
Benefits 
IFF antennas provide many benefits to the users. The first benefit is that it helps you 
to identify friendly or enemy aircraft. That improves air defence, reduces accidental 
attacks, and enhances battlefield awareness. The Best IFF Antenna ensures secure 
communication between aircraft and control centres. It tells you about how you can 
make better decisions during military operations. So that you cannot attack friendly 
vehicles. 
ELT antennas send distress signals during aircraft emergencies or crashes. That 
enables quick location detection and saves lives in survival situations. The ELT 
Antenna Aircraft improves aviation safety and ensures a timely emergency 
response. You can use this antenna for the reliability and security of passengers. 
Bottom Line 
Today, IFF and ELT antennas are important in the aviation and defence industries. 
These helps make proper decisions and save the lives of people in 
emergencies. ELT antennas send distress signals that help rescuers locate aircraft 
quickly. Both enhance safety, communication, and efficiency in the aviation and 
defence sectors. 
However, we see how these antennas are very different from each other. From their 
radiation patterns, frequencies, and even purposes, they are so different. On one 
hand, IFF antennas tell about friendly or enemy vehicles. On the other hand, ELT 
antennas share distress signals in emergency situations in aviation. If you want to 
get an ELT antenna, you can connect with an ELT antenna manufacturer for high-
quality wireless solutions for your custom needs. While IFF antennas can provide 
you with the Identification Friend or Foe antennas at competitive prices.