What is Positive Identification (POSID) and why is it critical?

• A. POSID is confirming that the target is a legitimate enemy or target; essential to prevent fratricide and ensure safe attack.
• B. POSID is a pre-strike weather check.
• C. POSID is a list of aircrew names for a mission.
• D. POSID is the process of target post-strike damage evaluation.

Answer: (A)

Positive Identification means confirming beyond doubt that the object you’re about to engage is a legitimate enemy or designated target, not a friend, civilian, or decoy. This verification comes from multiple, independent sources—visual confirmation by a trained observer, sensor data, target markings, coordinates, and, when available, corroboration from higher authority or ROE approvals.

This is critical because close air support takes place in dynamic, cluttered battlespaces where misidentification can happen quickly. If you fire on the wrong thing, you risk fratricide, civilian harm, and violation of ROE, all of which undermine safety, legality, and mission success. By requiring POSID, forces ensure fires are directed only at the intended target, protecting friendly forces and civilians while maximizing the effectiveness of the attack. In practice, POSID is the gatekeeper before any engagement, guiding the decision to release or withhold weapon effects.