Originally Posted by
arearadar
Where does it say that the a/c was continuously tracked without a break, thus retaining identification ?
I read that a/c disappeared from radar.
After that. primary returns were observed but identification was not confirmed. How could it be ?
As a controller of 33 years experience that wouldn`t satisfy me.
For a controller I would agree that you would be seeking additional corroboration.
As a surveillance operator on the other hand, if I had dots 1, 2, . ,. ,. 4, ., 6
where the spacing accords with the estimated speed allowing for missing returns on a number of sweeps (even where the 'sweep' are not shown on the display) then I would consider that as possibly 'my' track. This is for a non-cooperating track where squawk flash or ident turns could not be requested. If there were no other 'Unknowns' then I would consider I had a coherent track and apply a track number to it.
In this case I think they would have to work on probabilities and not certainties.
PS
I agree with Hunter58. If the military had the primary labelled as Friendly then it would be tracked through the turn back.
PPS, thank you MPN11 ( see we are of an age
)