902 to 928 MHz
2.400 to 2.4835 GHz
5.725 to 5.875 GHz
Civilian remote control UAS communications systems typically operate on a frequency of
900 MHz, while civilian UASs controlled with wi‐fi on a portable device (e.g., smartphone)
operate on a frequency of 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz. Civilian UAS communications systems
work by using one frequency to control the aerial vehicle from the ground via the
operator while the other frequency is used to relay video back to the ground and the
operator.
Military UASs are more complex than civilian UASs and can have communication
requirements beyond those typically needed for public use. Use of frequency spectrum
for military needs varies based on the type of UAS. Table 5‐2 provides the frequencies
used by typical military UASs.
Table 5-2
Military UAS Frequencies
Frequency Spectrum Used
UAS Type
<1 GHz 1‐6 GHz 6‐10 GHz >10 GHz
Dragon Eye X X
Pointer X X
Shadow X X
Hunter X
Predator X X
Global Hawk X X X
Military UAS’s have unique mission requirements including the duration of flights which
can be from minutes to many hours and operational distances which can be in the
immediate area to locations around the world. Military UASs are also equipped with
many sensors and transmitters that require RF spectrum to communicate the data to the
ground. The military uses RF signals with ground‐based satellite antennas and control
stations along with communication and GPS satellites to control and operate UASs.
Figure 5‐2 provides a visual of this communication between the ground, satellites and the
UAS.
Background Report
5-41