In every field where precision matters, laser comes to help. Whether on a battlefield or a construction site, precision matters, which is ensured by target designators. These are devices used to clearly mark, identify, or,in other words, “designate” a specific point so other systems, instruments, or operators can engage with that point accurately. In military environments, it guides weapons and aircraft. And in surveying, it helps engineers establish exact reference points for measurements.
Military and survey are two major sectors where target designators are widely used. Though the contexts of use are very different, the core purpose remains the same: to provide a reliable, precise point of reference.
Target designator in military operations
Striking with ultimate precision
The primary military role of a target designatoris to illuminate or mark a target, so that precision-guided munitions can lock onto it. This drastically improves strike accuracy while reducing the chance of hitting unintended objects or locations.
With this precision marking military personnel also avoid non-combatants and civilian structures.
Supporting coordinated operations
Certain operations require joint efforts by aircrafts, drones, or allied units. Target designators also facilitate shared targeting, ensuring seamless coordination.
Long-range and low-visibility engagements
When visibility is limited or distances are too far for manual identification, laser designators allow guided systems to engage safely from afar, improving both safety and effectiveness.
Different types of target designators are used in military, such as laser target designator, infrared designators, and multifunctional rangefinder-designators.
Target designator in surveying
In surveying, construction layout, and civil engineering, designators are used for designating a precise point for measurement or alignment.
Using target designators allows marking reference points for instruments, enabling highly accurate measurements, improving workflow efficiency, and enhancing safety and visibility.
ERDI Tech Ltd. specializes in designing and developing target designators with custom features to help industries bring accuracy and precision in their operations.