Which navigation system provides essential data for flight control in unmanned aircraft?

The GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a vital navigation system that provides essential data for flight control in unmanned aircraft. It utilizes a network of satellites to determine the precise location of the aircraft in real-time, enabling accurate navigation, position holding, and flight path management. GPS data is crucial for the UAV's ability to autonomously navigate to waypoints, avoid obstacles, and safely return to a designated home point if necessary.

GPS systems deliver continuous location and speed information, making them indispensable for various tasks, including long-range mission planning and real-time monitoring. The reliance on GPS enhances the capability of unmanned aircraft to perform complex operations with greater safety and efficiency, as it offers precise geolocation data that can be integrated with other onboard systems.

In contrast, while systems like inertial navigation systems and radar can provide navigational data, they often rely on additional inputs to function effectively or may not offer the same level of positional accuracy and usability as GPS. Manual pilot input also plays a role in guiding the aircraft, but it is less effective for autonomous operations in comparison to GPS technology.