What is the primary role of a GCS?

• A. Pilot manual control on board
• B. Keep the pilot out of the plane
• C. Manage payload data
• D. Interface with ATC

Answer: (B)

The Ground Control Station is the ground-based interface that lets the remote pilot command and monitor the UAV. Its main job is to enable control and situational awareness from the ground, so the aircraft can operate without a pilot inside it. When you use the GCS, you plan the mission, send flight commands, and watch live telemetry and video, all from the ground. That’s why the option describing keeping the pilot out of the plane fits best—the pilot operates remotely, not from onboard instrumentation. Other tasks—like onboard manual control, payload data handling, or interfacing with air traffic control—may occur in UAV workflows, but they aren’t the primary function of the GCS.