ConceptVersie: 0.9Datum: 2025-10
Performance-based Modes
Replacing BVLOS/VLOS/HLOS with performance-based operational modes.
We No Longer Call It BVLOS
BVLOS/VLOS/HLOS are terms from manned aviation that don't fit autonomous systems. They focus on human visibility rather than system capabilities.
Four Performance Modes
1. SLOS-DAA (Sensor Line of Sight + Detect & Avoid)
Concept: System has sensor coverage (not human eyes) + DAA capability.
Sensors:
- EO/IR cameras (10+ km range)
- Radar (5-20 km)
- Acoustic (rotor sound detection)
DAA (Detect & Avoid):
- Cooperative (ADS-B, transponders)
- Non-cooperative (radar, visual AI)
- Automatic collision avoidance
Use cases:
- ISR missions (persistent surveillance)
- Maritime patrol (USV, ASW)
- Border monitoring
2. ELOS-COOP (Electronic Line of Sight, Cooperative)
Concept: Datalink maintained + cooperative awareness with other aircraft.
Datalink:
- RF mesh (tactical)
- LEO satcom (beyond-horizon)
- 5G/LTE (infrastructure-based)
Cooperative:
- ADS-B transponder
- Mode S
- Mesh networking (swarm coordination)
Use cases:
- Controlled airspace operations
- Swarm coordination
- Joint ops (manned + unmanned)
3. GEO-ASSURED (Geographically/Temporally Assured)
Concept: Geographic and/or temporal separation ensures safety.
Geographic:
- Restricted airspace (military ranges)
- Segregated corridors (drone highways)
- Altitude blocks (below/above manned traffic)
Temporal:
- Time-based separation (NOTAMs)
- Scheduled operation windows
- Dynamic airspace allocation
Use cases:
- Training ranges
- Test & evaluation
- Offshore operations (oil/gas, wind)
4. PROC-SEG (Procedurally Segregated)
Concept: Procedural separation like IFR, via ATC coordination.
Procedures:
- Flight plans filed (like IFR)
- ATC clearances
- Separation standards (3-5 NM horizontal, 1000 ft vertical)
Integration:
- UTM (UAS Traffic Management)
- Existing ATC systems
- Deconfliction with manned traffic
Use cases:
- Long-range logistics (cargo drones)
- Medical transport (SAR, ambulance)
- Infrastructure inspection (power lines, pipelines)
Comparison: Old vs New
| Aspect | BVLOS/VLOS (Old) | Performance Modes (New) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Human visual capability | System sensor capability |
| Framing | Pilots' perspective | Tech performance |
| Safety basis | "Pilot can see" | Sensor + DAA + procedures |
| Regulation | Restrictive (preserve pilot monopoly) | Performance-based |
| Innovation | Slow (regulatory lag) | Fast (tech-driven standards) |
Military Relevance
For military ops, BVLOS/VLOS are irrelevant:
- Combat ranges exceed visual limits
- All ops are "beyond visual" by definition
- Focus on sensor performance + cooperative awareness
Performance modes are directly applicable:
- SLOS-DAA: ISR, strike missions
- ELOS-COOP: Swarm ops, joint missions
- GEO-ASSURED: Training, test ranges
- PROC-SEG: Strategic transport, logistics