What does UAS stand for?

The correct term that UAS stands for is Unmanned Aircraft System. This designation is widely used in regulatory, operational, and technical discussions about drones and other unmanned vehicles that operate in the airspace. The term recognizes that it's not just the aircraft itself that comprises the system; it’s the entire operation which includes the aircraft, the control system, and the ground stations that support the control and other functionalities.

Although other options might sound plausible at first glance, they do not accurately reflect the terminology established by regulatory bodies like the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization). For instance, "Unmanned Aerial System" is a common mistake, as it implies a broader context that can be misleading. "Unmanned Airborne System" doesn’t capture the full scope since it suggests only those components that are physically airborne, and "Unmanned Authorization System" does not relate to the actual hardware or operational system involved in unmanned flight. Thus, Unmanned Aircraft System provides the most comprehensive and accurate representation of what UAS encompasses.