From the GCS, who may also need to perform external communications via voice communications with the external crewmembers, air traffic control, customer(s), or company?

• A. Pilot
• B. Payload operator
• C. Ground technician
• D. UAS crew

Answer: (D)

In this context, external voice communications from the Ground Control Station are a responsibility of the UAS crew. The GCS is the operational hub for the mission, and coordinating with outside parties—such as external crewmembers, air traffic control, customers, or the company—is part of what the crew does to keep the operation safe and compliant. While the pilot controls the aircraft and the payload operator manages sensing tasks, the crew as a unit is typically the one that handles communications with relevant parties to relay status, obtain authorizations, or convey mission details. So the UAS crew is the best answer because it reflects the team-based communications role inherent in many UAS operations.