Terrain imperatives for Mini unmanned aircraft systems applications

PurposeAmongst all classes of unmanned aircraft system (UAS), the rise of the Mini UAS class is the most dominant. Mini UASs are field-deployable systems and hence are not expected to operate from a runway. Therefore, the operating terrain plays an important role in the deployment and employment of the Mini UAS. However, there is limited published work in this area. The impact of terrain is more critical for military applications than civilian applications. The purpose of this paper is to explore the implications of various types of terrain on the employment and deployment of Mini UAS.Design/methodology/approachThis paper explores the implications of various types of terrain on the employment and deployment of Mini UAS.FindingsMini UAS with field deployable requirements is often launched within the tactical battle area in case of military applications or in close proximity to the intended target area for civilian applications. Due to the size and weight of the Mini UAS, launch and recovery becomes an important factor to be considered. Rotary wing or fixed-wing vertical take-off and landing configuration UAS overcomes the limitations of Mini UAS and hence it is the preferred option. Impact of the terrain is significantly higher for military applications as compared to civil applications. Mountain terrain is the most challenging for Mini UAS operations.Practical implicationsThis paper will help the designers configure the UAS as per the operating terrain.Originality/valueTerrain affects the deployment and employment of Mini UAS and the capabilities of the system with respect to terrain in which it is expected to operate must be considered during the design of a Mini UAS. The paper will help the designers configure the UAS as per the operating terrain.