What are the roles of the GCS in drone operations?

The Ground Control Station (GCS) plays a crucial role in drone operations primarily through mission planning and controlling flight. This is because the GCS serves as the command center for the pilot or operator. It enables the planning of flight paths, setting waypoints, and configuring the drone’s mission parameters before takeoff. During the flight, the GCS allows the operator to monitor the drone's status in real-time and make adjustments as necessary for safe and effective operation.

Through the GCS, operators can also access telemetry data, such as altitude, speed, battery levels, and other critical information that is vital for managing the flight efficiently. This level of oversight and control is essential for ensuring the success of any mission, making it a key component of drone operations.

While other options involve various elements of the drone and its usage, they do not encapsulate the central role of the GCS as effectively as mission planning and flight control does, which are fundamental to executing successful drone operations.