Zielanlagen

Zielanlagen (singular Zielanlage) is a German term meaning target installations or targeting facilities. In military, defense research, and related industries, the expression refers to the set of equipment, sites, and configurations used to create, present, or track targets for evaluation, training, and testing of weapons systems, sensors, and fire-control algorithms.

A typical Zielanlage comprises finite ranges or test ranges, target supports or decoys, telemetry and data acquisition infrastructure, radar or optical beacons for target illumination, and safety perimeters. Systems may include static targets such as silhouettes or boards, mobile targets mounted on rails or vehicles, and aerial or remotely controlled targets for air-defense and missile testing. Modern Zielanlagen often integrate simulation elements and digital telemetry to record engagement data for post-mission analysis.

In use, Zielanlagen serve purposes such as calibrating sensors, validating fire control solutions, conducting live-fire exercises, and researching new targeting technologies. They are typically subject to strict safety, airspace, and environmental regulations, managed by military authorities or authorized civilian agencies, and require coordination with local authorities.

Etymology and usage note: Zielanlagen reflects German-language terminology where Ziel means target and Anlage denotes installation or facility; in English-language technical literature, the term is usually translated as target installation or targeting facility when context is military or research-oriented.