Differences Between Drone vs UAV vs UAS 

The term ‘drone’ has gained widespread popularity as a reference to the small helicopter-like devices operated by millions globally. Yet, the multitude of alternative terms used to refer to these devices can add a layer of confusion.

It might seem peculiar to use the term “drone” to encompass both a hobbyist’s aircraft and a sophisticated weapon, including surveillance drone, deployed on a battlefield, given their disparate purposes. So, why aren’t distinct names assigned to them?

To begin, every UAV is considered a drone, but the inverse is not necessarily true. Feeling perplexed? Let’s explore further!

The following explanation breaks down the various phrases you’ve likely encountered, shedding light on each term’s meaning and discerning any differences between them – UAS vs UAV vs drone.

What is a drone?

An unmanned aircraft, commonly referred to as a drone, is more formally known as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or unmanned aircraft system (UAS technology). Essentially, a UAS or UAV drone is a robotic flying device that can be controlled remotely or operate autonomously through software-controlled flight plans embedded in its systems. These systems work in tandem with onboard sensors and a global positioning system (GPS).

Initially associated primarily with military applications, UAVs were employed for purposes such as anti-aircraft target practice, intelligence gathering, and as platforms for weapons. However, drones have now expanded into various civilian roles. Commercial uses of drones include search and rescue, surveillance, traffic monitoring, weather monitoring, firefighting support, personal use, drone-based photography, videography, agriculture, and delivery services.

Drones exhibit diverse capabilities in terms of both altitude and range. Very close-range drones are typically limited to traveling up to three miles and are predominantly favoured by hobbyists. Close-range UAVs extend their reach to around 30 miles. Short-range drones cover distances up to 90 miles, primarily serving purposes like espionage and intelligence gathering. Mid-range UAVs serves a distance range of 400 miles, finding applications in intelligence gathering, scientific studies, and meteorological research.  

Here are the two main types of drones offered by most UAV and UAS manufacturers:

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV): A UAV, commonly referred to as a drone, is an aircraft without a human pilot or passengers onboard. These vehicles can be controlled remotely, operate autonomously, or a combination of both.

Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS): The term UAS encompasses not only the UAV but also includes all the necessary software, hardware, payload, pilot, and communication systems required for operating the vehicle. This includes components such as ground control stations and data links.

At first glance, it might seem unnecessary to have two terms describing what seems to be the same purpose. However, it’s crucial to recognize that while all UASs involve UAV drones, not every drone or UAV is part of a comprehensive UAS.

What is a UAV?

UAVs are aircraft directed autonomously, via remote control, or through a combination of both methods. Note: UAV meaning and stands for the term “unmanned aerial vehicle”. These vehicles are equipped with an array of sensors, electronic receivers and transmitters, and offensive ordnance. Their applications encompass strategic and operational reconnaissance, battlefield surveillance, and active intervention in military operations. This intervention can take place indirectly, involving the designation of targets for precision-guided munitions deployed from manned systems, or directly, with UAVs deploying or firing these munitions themselves. Plus, there is a high demand for these devices in the drone inspection and monitoring market.

What is a UAS?

The Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) constitutes the complete package essential for system operation, encompassing the ground control system, camera, GPS, all required software, the necessary operational skills, and maintenance tools. These versatile systems find application in various fields, including surveying, filmmaking, and military intelligence gathering. In survey work, two primary types of UAVs are employed: unmanned fixed-wing aircraft, well-suited for tasks like aerial mapping and topographical modelling, and vertical take-off and landing systems with propeller-based aircraft, ideal for accessing challenging locations and conducting detailed inspection work.

Comparison of Drone vs UAV vs UAS

When discussing the concept of a drone, we are encompassing a broad category that includes anything capable of remote control or autonomous movement without the need for a pilot or driver. This extends to vehicles or objects traversing air, water, or land. Therefore, the term “drone” serves as the overarching label for all unmanned vehicles and objects.

In contrast, a UAV represents a more specific category within the drone realm, focusing solely on unmanned aerial vehicles and objects. In this context, every UAV is a drone, but not all drones qualify as UAVs. Even within the commercial drone domain, when we refine the comprehensive definition of drones, they fall under the category of UAVs.

Lastly, a UAS diverges significantly from the concepts of drones and UAVs, as it transcends the physical vehicle. When referencing a UAS, the discussion extends beyond the mere vehicle to include various accessories, equipment, and software integral for controlling and enabling the autonomous or remote flight of UAVs.

To sum up, the primary differentiation between drones, UAS and UAV centres on the breadth of the systems they denote.

UAV specifically denotes the unmanned aerial vehicle or drone, whereas UAS encompasses the complete system supporting and managing the UAV. This includes ground control stations, software, and communication systems.

While both terms are prevalent in the drone industry, many operators favour the term “UAS” for its accuracy in conveying the complexity and sophistication of the systems they operate.

By grasping the distinctions between drone, UAS and UAV, along with the differences between commercial and consumer drones, organisations and governments can make more informed decisions when selecting drones that align with their specific requirements.

For additional information on how ideaForge UAVs can support your organization, you can reach out to us. As we move forward, ideaForge’s dedication to innovation is poised to significantly drive the expansion of UAV technology and applications. This commitment is anticipated to reshape the dynamics of how we engage with and oversee our infrastructure, governance and environment.