Tactical RF Fundamentals for UAS Operators
Diagnose and overcome electronic warfare threats in real-time — the most lethal capability gap in modern drone warfare.
Tactical RF Fundamentals for UAS Operators
Address the most lethal capability gap: operators who cannot diagnose and overcome electronic warfare threats in real-time. Based on Ukrainian combat lessons learned and operational requirements in contested electromagnetic environments.
Program Overview
This program develops spectrum awareness and RF diagnostic capabilities for UAS operators. Training focuses on understanding communications as contested, fragile dependencies and developing the ability to recognize and respond when the spectrum is degraded or denied.
Key Focus Areas:
- RF fundamentals and propagation characteristics
- Control versus payload versus telemetry links
- Link budget calculation and validation
- GPS dependency and alternatives
- Electronic warfare countermeasures
- Spectrum coordination with electromagnetic warfare teams
Who Should Attend
Primary Audience:
- UAS operators in EW-contested environments
- Unit electronic warfare coordinators
- Tactical UAS instructors
- Military intelligence operators
- Special operations UAS elements
Prerequisites: Basic UAS operations experience recommended
Training Approach
Emphasis on practical skills development—not academic RF engineering theory. Operators learn to recognize RF problems in operational contexts and apply field-expedient solutions without requiring deep technical backgrounds.
Program Outcomes
Upon completion, operators demonstrate capability to:
- Diagnose common RF link problems in field conditions
- Apply countermeasures to electronic warfare threats
- Coordinate UAS operations with unit electromagnetic warfare officers
- Operate effectively in GPS-degraded environments
- Maintain situational awareness in contested spectrum
Request Training Information
Request Training Proposal View All Courses
Questions?
Email: info@forgeandflightacademy.com
Related Programs:
- FFR-301: Advanced Electronic Warfare - Advanced EW countermeasures
- FFF-401: FPV Systems Integration - Complete FPV training
Course Details
| Duration | 5 days (40 contact hours) |
| Format | Facility-based (Fayetteville, NC) or on-site deployment |
| Prerequisites | FFF-401 or equivalent UAS operational experience recommended |
| Target Audience | Active UAS operators, unit S6/G6 personnel, DoD agencies |
| Scheduling | Contact us to schedule. Can be bundled with FFF-401. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does FFR-201 cover?
FFR-201 teaches tactical RF fundamentals for UAS operators — spectrum awareness, link budget basics, real-time EW interference diagnosis, and countermeasures for maintaining mission continuity in contested RF environments.
Do I need a technical background for FFR-201?
No technical background is required. FFR-201 is designed for operators, not RF engineers. The course focuses on what operators need to recognize and do in the field, not theoretical RF mathematics.
What equipment is used in FFR-201?
Each student works with a HackRF One software-defined radio and PortaPack. These tools are provided as part of the course and students keep them upon graduation.
How long is FFR-201?
FFR-201 is a 5-day program covering 40 contact hours. It can be delivered facility-based in Fayetteville, NC or on-site at your location.
How does FFR-201 differ from FFR-301?
FFR-201 covers tactical RF fundamentals for operators — spectrum awareness, link troubleshooting, and basic EW countermeasures. FFR-301 is the advanced course, covering spectrum operations planning, advanced EW countermeasures execution, and direct coordination with S-6/G-6 EW officers.
Ready to Schedule This Course?
All training proposals are customized to your organization’s requirements, operational timeline, and location preference.
Ready to Schedule This Course?
All training proposals are customized to your organization's requirements, operational timeline, and location preference. We respond within 48 hours.