Which type of identification is primarily conducted by Thermal Identification Panels?

Thermal Identification Panels are primarily used for air-to-ground identification. This technology leverages thermal imaging to detect and identify aircraft by their heat signatures as they operate over ground areas. It allows for the differentiation between various types of aircraft and can help in several scenarios, including target identification and situational awareness during operations. The thermal signatures captured can provide valuable information about the aircraft's altitude, speed, and general behavior, which is essential for ground forces to understand aerial activities in their vicinity. The thermal imaging capability is less relevant for ground-to-ground or air-to-air identification missions, which rely on different technologies and types of data.