Group 1 UAS present a significant threat due to which combination of characteristics?

• A. Large radar signature and high altitude
• B. Expensive components and complex maintenance
• C. Small radar cross-section, low altitude, inexpensive and numerous
• D. Pilot-operated and heavily armed

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that Group 1 UAS become a significant threat because they are tiny, cheap, and can be used in large numbers at low altitudes. Their small radar cross-section makes them hard to detect and track on radar, especially when they fly close to the ground where clutter and terrain mask movement. Flying at low altitude also puts them under the coverage gaps of some sensors and reduces the reaction time available to defenses. Coupled with being inexpensive and numerous, you can field many of these inexpensive drones, saturating sensors and shooters, increasing the chance of penetration or disruption even if each unit carries only a light payload. In contrast, a large radar signature and high altitude would be easier to detect and cue defenses against; expensive components and complex maintenance limit how many units can be produced and kept ready; and a manned, heavily armed configuration does not describe Group 1 UAS, which are typically small, unmanned, and not heavily armed.