Chapter 2
GROUND CONTROL STATION
2-16. Control of Hunter UA while in flight comes from one of two GCSs or the launch and recovery
station (LRS). The GCS collects, processes, analyzes, and distributes digitized battlefield information by
interfacing with currently fielded systems. Once the UA is airborne at approximately 3,500 feet (1,066.8
meters) and moving toward the objective area, the LRS passes control of the UA to a forward GCS to carry
out the mission.
2-17. As a rule, two stations remain at the launch site, allowing one station to displace to an alternate
location if needed during mission execution. This enables one station to recover the UA while the other is
on the move. The forward control station is normally collocated with the supported unit.
2-18. Although GCSs control the UA, the RVT is another method of sharing the video feed provided by
the UA. RVTs may be collocated with command posts (CPs) that do not have a GCS. Each RVT comes
with a communications package allowing it to receive real-time video feed from selected UA and display
the picture to observers on a small video screen.
2-19. The location of the RVT within the TOC is an issue of importance to ensure maximum utilization of
system capabilities. When collocated with an All-Source Analysis System (ASAS) RWS, the RVT allows
the military intelligence (MI) analyst at the RWS terminal to capture an image identified by the UAS
operator on his screen, conduct a screen print, and carry out further detailed analysis of the image. When
located next to the Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data Sustem (AFATDS), the RVT supports the fire
and effects cell (FEC) and his crew using UAS data to execute calls for fire. Locating the RVT next to the
Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) common ground station (CGS) and air and
missle defense workstation can also benefit operations, as these assets often work collectively against
identified targets.
2-20. In digital tactical operations centers (TOCs), commanders and staff can view the UA picture on a
screen of the command information center (CIC) in the briefing area without regard to the positioning of
the RVT in the TOC.
RQ-7 SHADOW
CAPABILITIES
2-21. Capabilities of the Shadow system include—
z Multiple payload capability.
z Modular design enables growth.
z Early entry capability for 72 hours on one C-130 (minimum equipment for operation).
z One complete Shadow unit is transportable on three C-130s.
z Compatible with Army Battle Command System (ABCS).
z EO/IR sensor.
UTILIZATION
2-22. RQ-7's (figure 2-5) tasks include day/night reconnaissance, surveillance, TA, and BDA. The RQ-7
can be equipped with a global positioning system (GPS)-based navigation system for fully autonomous
operations. The primary mission payload is the plug-in optronic payload (POP) EO/IR sensor. The
Shadow’s EO/IR payload is capable of producing color video during daylight operations and black and
white thermal images at night. This system can spot ambush sites or insurgents planting improvised
explosive devices (IEDs). Other payloads under consideration include the SAR/moving target indicator
(MTI) and one with a laser rangefinder/designator (LRF/D).
2-6 FMI 3-04.155 4 April 2006