the essentials

Ground Control Units

Always in control

All BlueBird UASs operate from an advanced and intuitive proprietary Ground Control System that’s easy to transport in a dedicated backpack or rugged cases. It is designed for rapid set-up in the field. Enables control of the UAV and supports it's operational mission capabilities, without need for aviation or piloting experience.

Prior to launch, the operator deploys the ground control station and situates the Ground Data Terminal, using the GCS to carry out pre-flight checks.

The GCS consists of the
following components:

Portable Ground Control
Station (PGCS)

With an intuitive user interface, the PGCS is a compact, ruggedized computer that integrates with the GCS software and can be used for all stages – from planning to controlling the mission. It displays both real-time videos and moving tactical maps. Records the entire mission for later debriefing and information dissemination.

The PGCS also offers an optional docking station whose ergonomically designed buttons and switches provide advanced control capabilities, enabling rapid access to the main GCS functions, allowing operators to conduct continuous long-term operation.

Ground Data Terminal
(GDT)

Mounted on a tripod with an antenna rotating mechanism, the GDT enables tracking targets during flight. This ruggedized unit connects to the GCS using an ethernet link, enabling it to communicate with the UAV and the Ground Control Station at ranges of up to 150km. Two orthogonal links handle command/telemetry and video.

Remote Video Terminal
(RVT)

Small, lightweight, highly portable and rugged, the remote video terminal provides front-line forces with real-time live imagery, directly from nearby UAV’s, and can overlay telemetry data directly on a moving map, providing field commanders with improved situational awareness and the ability to exploit intelligence capabilities.

Locating Transmission Unit
(LTU)

Locating Transmission Unit (LTU)

The LTU enables advanced situational awareness by transmitting the positioning of any human or physical asset equipped with it, along with other data, to UAV’s flying in its vicinity, using short encoded UHF signal bursts of several milliseconds. In parallel, all LTU data appears overlaid on the Ground Control Station’s map in real-time. Completely wire-free, the LTU can be powered by batteries or an external energy source.

Emergency Transmission Unit
(ETU)

Emergency Transmission Unit (ETU)

In case of communication loss, airborne malfunctions and the like, this hand-held, battery-powered device provides operators with limited control of the UAV. Using a low-bandwidth, redundant frequency link it can perform pre-flight checks, automatic return-home, immediate deployment or execute a pre-programmed flight pattern. Each ETU can be programmed to control any of the UAV’s, simply by keying-in its tail number on the integrated keypad.