How to View Military Planes on Flight Radar

For those interested in observing military aircraft as they navigate through the skies, there are several tools and methods available. However, standard civilian flight tracking websites often filter out military planes for various reasons. This article will guide you through the process of viewing military planes on popular radar systems like Flight Radar24 and ADSB.

Using Flight Radar24 to View Military Planes

Step 1: Visiting the Flight Radar24 Website

Head to the Flight Radar24 website at Here, you will find real-time global flight tracking with a significant focus on civilian aircraft. By default, military planes are not displayed due to the filter set on the platform.

Step 2: Activating Military Aircraft Filters

While visiting Flight Radar24, you can still view military planes by utilizing a unique feature: the 'U' icon. Locate the 'U' icon at the top of the screen. Clicking on it will filter and display US military aircraft, and many other military planes from other countries as well. However, it's essential to note that not all military planes have transponders that enable them to be picked up by standard civilian tracking systems.

Some military aircraft, such as those involved in covert or low-visibility operations, may turn off their transponders or operate in areas without suitable radar coverage. In these cases, they may remain undetected by civilian tracking systems. Therefore, while the 'U' filter is a useful tool, it will not display all military aircraft in operation.

Using ADSB for Comprehensive Military Aircraft Tracking

Step 1: Exploring ADSB (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast) Systems

ADSB is a more comprehensive system for tracking both civilian and military aircraft. Unlike Flight Radar24, which focuses more on civilian aircraft, ADSB systems provide more detailed information, including military planes. ADSB systems use transponders that continuously broadcast information about the aircraft, making it easier to track military planes in real-time.

Step 2: Visiting ADSB or 360 Radar Websites

For instance, you can visit websites like or 360 Radar (). These platforms allow you to filter and display only military aircraft by ticking a checkbox or selecting a specific filter option. This will give you a comprehensive view of military planes, including those that may not be visible on standard civilian radar systems.

Understanding Military Aircraft Visibility

Why Some Military Planes Are Not Visible

It's important to note that not all military planes are equipped with or operate with transponders that allow them to be tracked. Some military aircraft are specifically designed for covert operations or to avoid detection. In such cases, they may not appear on civilian radar systems. Additionally, military planes often operate in areas with limited radar coverage, further reducing their visibility.

Conclusion

While standard civilian flight tracking platforms like Flight Radar24 typically filter out military planes, there are alternative tools like ADSB and 360 Radar that provide a more comprehensive view of military aircraft in the skies. By utilizing filters and selecting specialized platforms, you can gain a better understanding of military air traffic and the operations taking place.

Keywords: Flight Radar24, ADSB, Military Planes