UAS C2 data link performance for safe automatic flight guidance and control operation

Command and Control (C2) Data Link performance is essential for maintaining safe command and control of the Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). The tolerance of the automatic flight guidance and control system (AFGCS) to the degradation in C2 Data Link performance depends on the phase of flight and the AFGCS mode(s) of operation. This paper will discuss the tolerance and recommend limits for the C2 Data Link to maintain safe AFGCS operation. The paper will also present a recommended AFGCS notional architecture to enable safe operation with the available C2 Data Link technology.