Decode these terms!

Autonomous - Self-governing. For instance, autonomous UAVs only need ground support during takeoffs and landings. All other mission tasks including navigation are preprogrammed so that onboard computers can take care of all combat operations on their own. Any fully autonomous UAV or UGV must be sophisticated and reliable enough to assess the situation and apply the current rules of engagement.

EOD – Explosive Ordinance Disposal. EOD was one of the first jobs for military robots. Instead of putting humans in danger, these robots can inspect and investigate suspicious objects, and neutralize them by disrupting sensitive activation devices, or by moving the object to a safe place.

GPS – Global Positioning Satellite

Man-Portable Robotic Systems – UAVs or UGVs that can be carried by a single person.

RSTA - Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition

Semi-Autonomous – Partially self-governing. Semi-Autonomous aerial vehicles require ground control during important portions of flight like takeoff, landing, weapons employment, and some evasive maneuvers. Semi-Autonomous ground vehicles would be able to avoid obstacles while the operator focuses on other more mission oriented tasks.

Tele-Operated – A machine that is Tele-Operated is operated at a distance. Tele-Operated is the technical and research version of the conversational term remote control.

UA/GCV – Unmanned Aerial/Ground Combat Vehicle, sometimes used to reflect the difference between vehicles meant for reconnaissance and others that are armed.

UA/GS – Unmanned Aerial/Ground System, sometimes used to reflect the fact that these are not just aircraft, but systems including ground stations and other elements.

UAV – Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

UGV – Unmanned Ground Vehicle