Published online by Cambridge University Press: 13 January 2010
Armed forces have for many years developed new methods of observation in order to increase their capacity to fight at any time of day or night and in any weather conditions. Some have thus equipped themselves with thermal imaging or infrared (IR) cameras, which make it possible to recognize and detect people and objects not only at night but also in poor daytime visibility conditions (for example, through smoke, foliage or light rain).
1 “Thermal imaging”: by this means, the electromagnetic energy emitted in the infrared (IR) band (8–14 μm) by objects is transformed into electrical signals which are then used to draw a map of heat distribution on the landscape, thus forming a “visible” image.
2 Cauderay, Gérald C., “Visibility of the distinctive emblem on medical establishments, units and transports”, IRRC, No. 277, 07–08 1990, pp. 295 ff., in particular p. 301.Google Scholar
3 Regulations Concerning Identification, Annex I (amended) of the Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949, and relating to the Protection of Victims of International Armed Conflicts (Protocol I).