General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), utilizing Collins Aerospace Systems technology, recently succeeded in the first complete takeoff to landing flight of a MQ-9B SkyGuardian Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) using GA-ASI’s Certifiable Ground Control Station (CGCS). The Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion integrated avionics system played a key role as part of the interface for the flight’s ground control station. Pilots are able to take advantage of the systems’ intuitive operator interface and touch screen map, minimizing workload with a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-certified solution.

Integration of Pro Line Fusion into UAS ground control stations helps to bring together a multitude of data inputs such as weather, airspace information, mission data, Search and Rescue (SAR) pattern flight management and Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) notifications, providing real-time mission optimization and a common operating picture for the operator.