What is a benefit of using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in reconnaissance?

The benefit of using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in reconnaissance is that they provide real-time surveillance and significantly reduce risk to personnel. UAVs can be deployed to gather intelligence over potentially dangerous areas without putting soldiers in harm’s way. This capability allows them to monitor enemy movements, assess terrain, and collect vital information quickly and efficiently. The real-time data transmission enables decision-makers to react promptly to situations as they unfold.

In contrast, while UAVs can assist in scouting missions, they do not completely replace human scouts because there are scenarios where human judgment is essential. The statement that UAVs only collect data on weather is misleading as their capabilities extend far beyond meteorological data collection; they can capture a variety of imagery and information integral to reconnaissance missions. Additionally, UAVs are generally considered more cost-effective than traditional manned reconnaissance missions, especially when factoring in the costs associated with personnel and equipment involved in deploying soldiers. Thus, option B accurately reflects the advantages of using UAVs in military operations, particularly in reconnaissance.