Group 2 UAS

Group 2 UAS (unmanned aerial systems) typically operate at altitudes below 3500 feet AGL (above ground level), and at speeds below 250 knots. They may be utilized by many different branches of armed forces, including army, air force, and navy and marines.

This classification of drones, for defense operations, bridge the gap between smaller hand-launched drones and larger, more complex platforms. As medium-sized aerial assets, they offer extended flight durations and enhanced payload capacities compared to their Group 1 counterparts.

Featuring sophisticated sensor suites and communication links, Group 2 UAS excel in ISTAR (intelligence, reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition) missions.

DoD UAS Groups

UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) falling under this category within the United States Department of Defense (DoD) classification system are those with maximum takeoff weights (MTOWs) of between 21 and 55 lbs. They may be fixed-wing, multirotor, hybrid VTOL, or unmanned helicopter platforms, and fill a niche that sits in between the smallest mini-UAVs and larger systems.

As their weight is still relatively low, they are still highly portable and versatile, and typically only require small logistical footprints to operate. This makes them ideal for use by forward-deployed troops and units. While many will be battery-powered, some are large enough to be equipped with internal combustion military drone engines, enhancing their range and flight endurance.

Skiron-X long-endurance eVTOL Group 2 UAS optimized for ISR by Aurora Flight Sciences

Group 2 UAS Applications

Military Group 2 UAVs may be deployed for a variety of different applications, although the most common use case is ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance).

Other military and defense applications include the use of laser target designators to guide munitions fired by other aircraft as well as artillery. They may also be designed as loitering munitions systems, providing a direct strike capability themselves.

As they have higher payload capacities than Group 1 UAS, they can be used for battlefield logistics and resupply operations, delivering critical items such as medical supplies to frontline troops.

Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)

One of the primary uses of military-grade Group 2 UAS is intelligence gathering. These drones are equipped with advanced cameras, thermal imaging, and other sensors to conduct surveillance missions over enemy territory or areas of interest. They provide real-time intelligence on enemy positions, movements, and infrastructure, allowing commanders to make informed decisions and improve situational awareness. Their small size makes them less detectable by enemy forces, enabling discreet ISR operations.

Tactical Targeting and Fire Support

Class 2 drones can be deployed to identify and track high-value targets on the battlefield. In conjunction with other military assets, such as artillery or missile systems, these drones can provide accurate targeting data for precision strikes. By offering real-time updates on target movement or status, they enhance the effectiveness of indirect fire or airstrikes, reducing collateral damage and improving mission success.

Battle Damage Assessment

After an attack or strike, Group 2 unmanned aircraft are used for battle damage assessment, providing detailed imagery and data on the effectiveness of the operation. This helps commanders assess the level of damage inflicted on enemy forces or infrastructure, enabling timely decisions on follow-up actions. The ability to perform BDA without risking personnel increases operational safety and efficiency.

Electronic Warfare and Communication Relay

Group 2 UAS can be equipped with electronic warfare (EW) systems to disrupt enemy communications and radar. Additionally, they can act as communication relays, ensuring secure and reliable communication between forces operating in challenging environments, such as mountainous terrain or urban settings where traditional communication methods may be limited.

Uses Cases for Group 2 UAS

Payloads

They can be equipped with EO/IR gimbals that incorporate daytime and thermal cameras, and may also carry specialized EW (electronic warfare) and SIGINT (signals intelligence) payloads.

Communication

They may utilize long-range tactical RF and SATCOM datalinks that enable them to operate BVLOS (beyond visual line of sight).