Abstract: A marker beacon deployable by being launched through overhead foliage is able of landing atop and settling on the foliage for visual and infrared detection. A tether limits the flight range of the beacon and operates a switch to the electronic portion of the device to initiate radio signalling. The radio information assists in initial detection of the beacon by a seeking craft. Received signals from the seeking craft activate a flare stored within the beacon unit to further assist in locating the beacon. The beacon is also deployable by launch at sea, and by both place-and-leave and hand-held means on land and sea.

Abstract: A multifunctional case that is suitable for storing, carrying or launching marker beacon. The launching could be in a dense jungle to place the marker beacon atop tree branches to make it visible from the air, or the case may be adapted for a launching at sea. The case has a triggering mechanism for launching the marker beacon. It has alignment means that comprises a first alignment position for inhibiting a launch when storing or carrying the marker beacon within the case. The alignment means has a second position for placing the marker beacon in position to be launched. The launching takes place upon activation of a triggering mechanism that forms part of the case.