A2G

A2G stands for air-to-ground and is a term used to describe the class of links and systems that connect airborne platforms with ground-based assets. It encompasses the exchange of data, targeting information, and control messages between aircraft and ground stations, as well as between aircraft and ground-based targets or command centers in some military configurations.

A2G links support bi-directional communication, carrying sensor data, imagery, video, mission updates, and weapon-designation data. They can operate over line-of-sight radio frequencies or via satellite communications to achieve beyond-LOS connectivity. Modern A2G systems are typically protected by encryption and are designed to be resistant to jamming and interference, ensuring secure and reliable transmission under combat conditions.

Historically, air-to-ground communication began with visual signaling and radio-telephone links for reconnaissance, artillery spotting, and control of air-delivered assets. The development of digital data links and integrated ground-control networks expanded A2G capabilities, enabling real-time ISR, targeting designation, and precision guidance for munitions. Today, A2G is integral to both manned aircraft and unmanned systems, which rely on robust, low-latency links to ground stations for command, control, and data dissemination.

Applications of A2G are primarily military, including close air support, surveillance and reconnaissance, target designation for precision-guided weapons, and battlefield management. While civil aviation involves air-ground communications, those systems are typically categorized separately (for example, in air traffic control and data-link services), rather than described as A2G in a defense context.

See also: air-to-air, air-to-ground missiles, data links, unmanned aerial systems, reconnaissance.