Understanding UAS Groups 1-5
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) come in various sizes and capabilities. The U.S. Department of Defense classifies them into five groups based on weight, altitude, and speed. Each group has distinct characteristics that define their use and advantages in different applications.
Group 1: The Smallest Tier
Group 1 encompasses the smallest drones, often weighing less than 20 pounds. They operate below 1,200 feet Above Ground Level (AGL) and generally have a speed of under 100 knots. These drones are commonly used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and small-scale operations. They are portable, often hand-launched, and require minimal infrastructure to operate.
- Example: RQ-11 Raven
- Weight: Less than 20 pounds
- Altitude: Below 1,200 feet AGL
- Speed: Less than 100 knots
They are ideal for short-duration missions and provide real-time video streams to assist with tactical decision-making. These are favored by ground troops for their portability and ease of use in rapidly changing environments.
Group 2: Tactical Drones
UAS in Group 2 weigh between 21 to 55 pounds. They can also operate under 3,500 feet AGL and at speeds under 250 knots. These drones bridge the gap between small portable machines and larger tactical units. They are deployed for extended surveillance and have a larger range than Group 1.
- Example: ScanEagle
- Weight: 21 to 55 pounds
- Altitude: Below 3,500 feet AGL
- Speed: Less than 250 knots
Tactical units utilize Group 2 UAS for missions that require greater endurance and range without a significant increase in logistical demand. They can be launched from maritime platforms or remote locations, supporting ground and naval operations.
Group 3: Persistent Surveillance
These drones are heavier and more capable than the first two groups, weighing more than 55 pounds. They fly below 18,000 feet and at speeds less than 250 knots. Group 3 UAS offer extended flight times, instrumentation sophistication, and more complex payloads. They perform persistent surveillance and broader intelligence-gathering roles.
- Example: RQ-7 Shadow
- Weight: More than 55 pounds
- Altitude: Below 18,000 feet
- Speed: Less than 250 knots
These systems support a variety of missions, including counterinsurgency operations and disaster relief. Their ability to hover and capture high-resolution imagery makes them essential for strategic planning.
Group 4: Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE)
Group 4 UAS operate at altitudes up to or beyond 18,000 feet and are faster than 250 knots. They are sophisticated, with extensive ranges and payload capacities. These systems are often used for tactical real-time video feed, reconnaissance, and target acquisition.
- Example: MQ-1 Predator
- Weight: Varies significantly, often above several hundred pounds
- Altitude: Upwards of 18,000 feet
- Speed: Often above 250 knots
This group is notable for its endurance, able to conduct missions for over 24 hours. Countries use them for strategic surveillance, intelligence missions, and precision targeting, crucial for covert operations.
Group 5: High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE)
The largest and most capable UAS, Group 5, represents an advanced class of unmanned vehicles. They typically exceed 1,320 pounds and operate beyond 18,000 feet, sometimes reaching stratospheric levels. Their speeds and endurance allow for extensive reach, making them suitable for broad regional surveillance.
- Example: RQ-4 Global Hawk
- Weight: More than 1,320 pounds
- Altitude: Above 18,000 feet, often reaching altitudes of 60,000 feet
- Endurance: Can stay airborne for over 32 hours
Group 5 UAS are primarily used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions on a global scale. They provide critical battlefield information and strategic data to national security bodies, overseeing vast geographic areas without compromising safety.
Understanding these classifications helps in grasping the diverse capabilities and strategic applications of unmanned aircraft systems. They highlight the technological advancements and operational versatility in both military and civilian domains.
