What is the main difference between a UAV and a UAS?

The primary distinction between a UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) and a UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) is that a UAV specifically refers to the physical aircraft itself, while a UAS encompasses the complete system, including the UAV, the ground control station, communication links, and any additional components necessary for operation.

This understanding is critical because it highlights the broader scope of UAS. Essentially, UAS provides a comprehensive framework for operating unmanned flight, encompassing not just the aircraft but also the crucial systems that allow for piloting, data collection, and mission management.

The other choices do not accurately reflect this relationship. The mention of operations in urban areas does not pertain to the definitions of UAV and UAS, and framing UAV as the entire system misrepresents the defined terms in the industry.