What is the term for tracking and reporting the location and movement of friendly forces?

The correct term for tracking and reporting the location and movement of friendly forces is Friendly Force Tracking. This terminology is crucial in military operations because it directly pertains to the systems and processes designed to maintain accurate situational awareness regarding the position of one's own forces on the battlefield. This capability is essential for reducing the risk of fratricide, enhancing coordination among units, and ensuring that commanders can make informed decisions based on the current disposition of friendly units.

Friendly Force Tracking entails utilizing various technologies and methods, such as GPS and other tracking systems, to provide real-time information about troop movements. This ensures that units can effectively communicate and coordinate their actions, which is vital for operational success. The specificity of including "friendly" in the term highlights its focus on one's own forces, distinguishing it from broader tracking systems that might include enemy positions or other operational elements.

While the other terms might relate to aspects of tracking and awareness on the battlefield, they do not precisely refer to the tracking of friendly forces. Force Tracking and Operational Tracking can be vague and could imply tracking both friendly and enemy forces, while Situation Awareness is a broader term that encompasses understanding the overall environment, including threats, terrain, and other factors, rather than just the location and movement of friendly forces.