Using the UAS Tool in ATAK (Android Team Awareness Kit) instead of a manufacturer's
proprietary command and control (C2) software offers several significant advantages,
especially in tactical and multi-agency operations. Here’s a breakdown of the key benefits:
1. Integrated Common Operating Picture (COP)
• The UAS Tool in ATAK allows real-time UAS video, telemetry, and location to be
overlaid on the same map with other friendly forces, assets, and mission data.
• Unlike standalone C2 software that shows only the drone’s data, ATAK enables
situational awareness across the entire operational area, improving coordination
and reducing the risk of blue-on-blue incidents.
2. Friendly Force Identification & Target Correlation
• Within the UAS Tool, the drone operator can identify friendly forces and correlate
targets based on shared data from their team's ATAK devices.
• This capability is critical for precision targeting and deconfliction in complex
environments and is typically not available in manufacturer-specific software.
3. Remote Viewing & Control over Secure Networks
• ATAK allows remote viewing and control of UAS feeds and functions over secure,
encrypted networks, enabling distributed command and oversight without exposing
data to public or vendor-managed cloud services.
• Ground forces and command elements can monitor and direct drone operations
without being physically near the operator, supporting better mission
synchronization.
4. Mission Packages & Data Sync On-the-Fly
• Mission packages, geospatial data, and sync feeds can be updated dynamically
within the UAS Tool, ensuring that drone operators and ground forces are working
from the same, up-to-date mission data.
• This allows for rapid re-tasking and real-time coordination, unlike proprietary
systems which may require manual updates or lack seamless data integration.
5. Interoperability Across UAS Platforms
• The UAS Tool is vendor-agnostic and supports multiple UAS types through common
protocols (e.g., Cursor-on-Target, MAVLink, etc.).
• Operators can monitor or control various drone types through a single interface,
reducing training requirements and enhancing logistical efficiency.
6. Real-Time Data Sharing
• UAS video feeds, positions, and metadata can be shared instantly with other ATAK
users on the network.
• This collaborative capability enables faster decision-making and enhanced mission
execution, without needing complex network setups often required with proprietary
software.
7. Customizable Mission Planning and Tools
• ATAK includes tools for mission planning, route creation, geofencing, and hazard
overlays, all accessible within the same tool the UAS operator is using.
• This ensures ground forces and aerial assets are synchronized, supporting a
cohesive operational flow that standalone C2 software can't match.
8. Security and Data Control
• ATAK supports secure communications and controlled data sharing within trusted
networks, avoiding third-party cloud services and ensuring mission confidentiality.
• Data stays within the tactical network, under full user control.
9. Plugin Extensibility
• ATAK’s plugin architecture allows for rapid integration of new capabilities, sensors,
or controls tailored to specific missions.
• This provides a level of flexibility and adaptability unmatched by proprietary
software.
10. Reduced Cognitive Load for Operators
• Using one platform (ATAK) for UAS control, mapping, communication, and data
management reduces the need to switch between multiple devices or applications,
boosting efficiency and response time.
Summary: The UAS Tool in ATAK delivers a unified, secure, and mission-synchronized
environment for UAS operations, offering remote control/viewing, friendly force
identification, target correlation, and real-time data updates — all within the same tool
used by ground forces. These capabilities make it far superior to traditional manufacturer
C2 software when operating in complex, dynamic environments.
