What is a primary advantage of combining rotors and fixed-wing systems in a UAS?

The primary advantage of combining rotors and fixed-wing systems in a UAS is that it leads to longer flight duration. This hybrid configuration allows the UAS to take advantage of the strengths of both rotorcraft and fixed-wing aircraft.

Rotors provide vertical takeoff and landing capabilities and can hover, making them effective for precise maneuvers and operations in confined spaces. Fixed-wing systems, on the other hand, are aerodynamically efficient for sustained flight over longer distances. By integrating both systems, the UAS can utilize the rotors for initial lift-off and hovering capabilities while transitioning to fixed-wing flight for greater efficiency during longer missions. This results in reduced energy consumption and allows for extended operations without the need for frequent battery changes or refueling, thus contributing to a significantly longer overall flight duration compared to using either system alone.

In contrast, other options like increased speed, better maneuverability, and enhanced stability can be influenced by various factors and may not necessarily stem from the hybrid design itself, making longer flight duration the most definitive advantage of this combination.