RPV altitude control

The ALTITUDE setting determines the height a UAV will attempt to maintain while moving toward a waypoint. Altitude cannot typically be adjusted at the current location, so altitude changes usually require setting a new waypoint or manually controlling the UAV.

Selecting appropriate altitude improves survivability and mission effectiveness. Higher altitudes are generally sufficient to reduce the effectiveness of small arms fire against small UAVs (sUAVs), while still allowing for effective surveillance and navigation.

Altitude selection should balance:

• Threat exposure
• Sensor effectiveness
• Mission requirements
• Airspace deconfliction with friendly assets