Signal transceivers on a TIE fighter Signal transceivers functioned as identification tools. Affixed to a starfighter, these devices enabled the pilot to differentiate between allied and hostile forces. In 3 ABY, the Rebel Alliance installed these transceivers on four commandeered TIE fighters. This was done to allow the four pilots, who were tasked with infiltrating a secret Imperial armada, to recognize each other amidst the authentic Imperial TIE fighters. Nevertheless, during the Battle of the secret armada, the signal transceivers used by the Rebels were subjected to jamming. Consequently, Rebel pilot Luke Skywalker had no choice but to depend on the Force.