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. [1][2][3] The "Group" system has five categories, whose capabilities increase with the number. [4]

Defense agencies have their own standard, and civilians have their ever-evolving loose categories for UAS. People classify them by size, range and endurance, and use a tier system that is employed by the military.

Groups 4 and 5 are the largest of DoD UAS, weighing over 1,320 pounds, and operating at all speeds and altitudes. Group 4 aircraft operate at all altitudes, usually below 18,000 feet MSL. Group 5 aircraft typically operate well above 18,000 feet MSL. UAS in Groups 4 and 5 require airfields with specially approved surfaces to safely operate.

2022年3月14日 · Unmanned Aircraft Systems (also known as UA, UAS, UAV, & Drone) are categorized as Group 1 (mini and micro systems) through Group 5 strategic-level assets. Groups are based on speed,...

2024年7月1日 · The US Department of Defense classifies Unmanned Aerial Systems (aka drones) into five categories based on size and performance. These are the five Unmanned Aerial Systems groups as defined by the DoD, along with corresponding examples of US military drones.

Routine access to non-segregated airspace is a key enabler for the civilian Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) industry. Approvals for UAS operations in this airspace are contingent on the...

2023年7月14日 · During the UAV meeting in September 2009, the NATO Joint Capabilities Group established a classification system for unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The UAS were divided into three categories: CLASS I, II, and III, with each class further divided into subcategories based on specific parameters.

2024年9月12日 · The U.S. military has divided its UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) repertoire into five numbered groups, separating them by their size, weight, and other capabilities. Let's take a look at each...

Executive Agent (EA) for Counter-Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-sUAS, unmanned aircraft groups 1, 2, and 3). In his capacity as EA, the SECARMY established the Joint C-sUAS Office (JCO),...

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) employs Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) across all echelons to support tactical, operational, and strategic operations. The types of UAS that are used in these operations are categorized into "Groups" according to their size and capability.