What type of information do modern IFF systems provide?

Modern Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems are specifically designed to distinguish between friendly and hostile forces in various military applications. The correct answer emphasizes the vital role that IFF systems play in identifying a craft’s type, its associated squadron, the specific mission it is undertaking, and its altitude. This information is crucial for situational awareness and ensuring that military assets can operate effectively without mistakenly engaging friendly forces.

IFF systems use transponders and interrogation signals to provide real-time data about the aircraft or ship. Understanding the craft's type and mission helps military operators make informed decisions in combat situations, enhance strategic planning, and improve safety by reducing the risk of friendly fire. The inclusion of altitude in the information provided further supports airspace management and tactical coordination.

Other options, while they cover valuable data in different contexts, do not align with the primary function of IFF systems. Information like fuel type and capacity, current weather and wind speed, or flight path and maintenance records serves different operational needs and is not the focus of IFF technology, which is primarily concerned with identification and classification of military assets in operational theaters.