// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
Group 4 UAS
Group 4 Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are large, long-endurance drones that typically operate at altitudes below 18,000 feet. They are too heavy to be launched by hand and require a prepared runway for takeoff and landing, similar to conventional aircraft.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Group 4 UAS is a US Department of Defense (DoD) classification for unmanned aircraft systems with a maximum gross takeoff weight exceeding 1,320 lbs and typically operating below 18,000 feet MSL at any speed. These runway-dependent platforms, like the MQ-9 Reaper and MQ-1C Gray Eagle, are primarily used for long-endurance intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) and strike missions.
BACKGROUND
The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) classifies unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into "Groups" according to their size and capability, a joint system that replaced the service branches' separate categorization schemes in 2011.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- MALE UAS
- Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance
- Large UAS
- Runway-dependent drone
- Persistent ISR platform
- MQ-class drone
USAGE NOTE
The term is used within the DoD and defense industry to categorize UAS capabilities, particularly for procurement, operational planning, and regulation.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Group 4 UAS.
A leading manufacturer of Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) systems, GA-ASI develops the MQ-9 Reaper and MQ-1C Gray Eagle, which are quintessential examples of Group 4 Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) UAS used for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) and strike missions.
A major aerospace and defense technology company that develops a wide range of unmanned systems. While known for the Group 5 Global Hawk, its portfolio has included Group 4 systems like the RQ-5 Hunter and the Firebird, an optionally-piloted intelligence gathering aircraft.
Develops high-performance, jet-powered unmanned aerial drone systems, including the XQ-58A Valkyrie. These systems are designed for roles as affordable, attritable 'loyal wingmen' and other advanced tactical missions, often fitting within or exceeding Group 4 specifications.
A major global defense and aerospace company involved in the development of advanced UAS. Their projects have included the Mantis MALE UAS demonstrator and contributions to future combat air systems, which leverage large unmanned platforms.
Provides critical technologies for Group 4 UAS, including advanced communication systems, ISR sensors, electronic warfare payloads, and command and control (C2) solutions. They also develop and integrate complete UAS platforms for various mission sets.
A defense technology company that acquired Blue Force Technologies, the developer of the 'Fury' high-performance unmanned aircraft. Fury is designed as a Group 5 UAS but represents Anduril's push into developing large, autonomous air systems relevant to this category.
Developer of multiple unmanned aircraft systems. While best known for the Group 3 RQ-7 Shadow, the company also develops larger, more capable platforms like the Aerosonde HQ which has capabilities that border on Group 4 for long-endurance missions.