// UNMANNED SYSTEMS AND NEXT-GEN WARFARE TERM
UAS
UAS stands for Unmanned Aircraft System, commonly known as a drone, which is an aircraft without a human pilot onboard that is controlled remotely or autonomously. It typically includes the unmanned aircraft itself, a ground-based controller, and a communication system between the two.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
An Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) is an aerospace platform consisting of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), a ground control station (GCS), and a data link for remote operation or autonomous flight missions, extensively utilized in military and defense for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), targeting, and strike operations.
BACKGROUND
The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 is a United States federal law which specifies the budget, expenditures, and policies of the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) for fiscal year 2026. The NDAA is an annual act of Congress that redefines the U.S. military budget.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- UAV
- Drone
- RPAS
- Unmanned Aircraft
- Remotely Piloted Aircraft System
USAGE NOTE
In military contexts, UAS is often preferred over 'drone' to emphasize the entire system, including ground control and communication, rather than just the aircraft itself.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to UAS.
A leading manufacturer of Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, known for the Predator and Reaper series used extensively by military forces worldwide.
A global aerospace and defense technology company that designs, develops, and manufactures advanced UAS platforms like the RQ-4 Global Hawk, MQ-4C Triton, and MQ-8B/C Fire Scout for various military missions.
A major global security and aerospace company involved in the development of various UAS for military applications, including tactical UAS, stealth reconnaissance platforms like the RQ-170 Sentinel, and advanced future concepts.
Develops a range of unmanned systems for military use, including the MQ-25 Stingray for aerial refueling, the MQ-28 Ghost Bat (Loyal Wingman) combat drone, and other experimental UAS platforms.
Develops advanced sensors, command and control systems, communications, and electronic warfare capabilities that are critical components and subsystems for military UAS platforms and operations.
A global defense, security, and aerospace company that develops and integrates advanced unmanned aerial systems, including tactical UAS, surveillance platforms, and autonomous combat aircraft concepts for military customers.
An international high technology company engaged in a wide range of defense, homeland security, and commercial programs, known for its comprehensive portfolio of military UAS, including the Hermes series.
A leading provider of small, tactical UAS for military, public safety, and commercial customers. Their systems like Raven, Wasp, and Puma are widely used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.