UAS deconfliction and identification
With Weapons Control Status (WCS) for UAS being generally more permissive than for conventional contacts due to the higher risk posed by false negatives compared to false positives. The objective is to prevent both friendly fire incidents and undetected hostile UAS through positive identification (PID) and airspace deconfliction.
Fixed-wing UAS are often easier to identify due to larger profiles, markings, or insignia. Small UAS (sUAS) may be difficult to identify due to size, speed, range, and use by multiple forces without clear markings.
Upon detecting an unknown UAS:
- Report UAS contacts FM/BS-1641 immediately up the chain of command.
- Maintain visual or sensor tracking.
- Treat the contact as potentially hostile until identification is confirmed.
- Prepare defensive or engagement actions if authorized.
To reduce misidentification risk, UAS operators should proactively announce their presence when operating near friendly elements. Clear communication reduces friendly fire risk and improves airspace awareness.
