text: Army Aviation Operations
  UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM COMMUNICATIONS RELAY
  PACKAGES
  3-184. The Army, as part of a joint network, employs a three-tiered communications system. This
  network has aerial, space, and terrestrial components provided by individual services, linking the various
  elements of the joint force to the global information grid. UAS facilitate C2 by extending the network as
  the commander circulates in the OE. Both UAS communication relay packages enhance C2 by providing
  extended-range voice communications between CPs, ground, and aviation units.
  3-185. The Gray Eagle is designed to support communications relay as one of its primary missions. It
  is equipped with a communications relay package-medium and provides extended tactical
  communications. This enables forces to communicate over the horizon and provides extension of the voice
  data network. Shadow UAS provides an additional layer of communications relay capability. This
  system provides a single channel of extended tactical voice communications.
  3-186. Gray Eagle and Shadow UAS provide LOS communications relay; however, only the Gray Eagle
  is able to provide over-the-horizon communications relay through satellite communications. A careful
  analysis of mission variables allows the loiter area to be selected in an area that provides security and
  uninterrupted communications.
  3-187. Terrain and Weather. Both natural and man-made features limit sensor effectiveness and C2.
  Flat terrain eases LOS issues while mountainous terrain may reduce unmanned aircraft range and data
  relay capability. Additionally, communications (voice and video) degradation between UAS and ground
  maneuver units may be experienced during inclement weather.
  3-188. Enemy Threat. Aviation battalion operations and intelligence must carefully analyze the threat
  and the impact potential threats can have upon aircraft working in the airspace above the battlefield. Since
  the Gray Eagle and Shadow mostly operate above the coordinating altitude for extended periods, medium-,
  and high-altitude air defense artillery, surface-to-air missiles, and MANPADS threats need to be identified
  and avoided. A careful analysis of the loiter area by the aviation unit ensures it can support the ground
  maneuver commander's concept and remain clear of high threat areas.
  3-189. Routes to/from the loiter area. Flight routes must be developed to support the aircraft's transition
  to and from the objective area and maximize their communications relay packages. These flight routes must
  be planned carefully, should avoid over flight of friendly artillery units, and should be opened and closed as
  needed through close coordination with the appropriate airspace element or controlling agency.
  SECTION X – PERSONNEL RECOVERY
  3-190. Army PR is the military efforts taken to prepare for and execute the recovery and reintegration of
  isolated personnel (FM 3-50). Personnel recovery is a portion of the protection warfighting function which
  begins with personnel recovery guidance; this is found in Annex E, Appendix 2, of a base order. At the
  tactical level, personnel recovery guidance is refined, by commanders into specific actions for the Soldier,
  known as isolated Soldier guidance, which provides mission specific guidance to the individual. Personnel
  recovery is an individual and a collective responsibility incorporated into the orders process through the
  military decision making process. SOPs and battle drills may be developed or refined in order to be
  properly integrated into mission planning and preparation. This also enables rapid execution of PR when
  required. Additionally, this integration establishes coordination points with other staff and joint elements
  effectively integrating into the overall PR architecture as well as ensuring commanders are aware of PR
  requirements.
  3-191. Army Aviation integrates into PR in two ways. First, Army Aviation supports the ground force
  commander in the execution of PR missions by conducting air assault, air movement, AE, attack,
  reconnaissance, security, and/or C2 support. Second, Army Aviation conducts recovery of its own forces
  who are isolated by conducting immediate recovery of isolated personnel or by conducting deliberate
  recovery of designated forces by serving as the recovery force.