Spectrum Management

Can the future of highly technical unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) depend on something as minor as frequencies? The answer is an overwhelming yes, and, by the way, frequencies and spectrum management are not minor players in today’s global operations. The Department of Defense’s (DOD) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Roadmap, 2005–2030 (Washington, DC: Office of the Secretary of Defense, 4 August 2005) reported an increased demand from combatant commanders for UAS support, stating that the DOD’s challenge is “the rapid and coordinated integration of this technology to support the joint fight.” This increased demand could be the logical effect of a February 2004 report by the Defense Science Board recommending that the acquisition and operational fielding of unmanned aerial vehicles be accelerated. Despite promoting their increased fielding and use, both documents are open about deficiencies and challenges.