Cui, WeiThis dissertation addresses the challenges of conducting autonomous long-distance operations in settings where communication is restricted or unavailable. It involves the development of aerial autonomy software, ground station user interface, and simulation tools. Field experiments are conducted to assess the real-world performance and scalability of the developed autonomous multi-vehicle systems. A search and revisit framework involving multiple UAS engaged in expansive area exploration has been developed. By employing the ARL MAVericks autonomy stack, we have devised three system designs with improving levels of autonomy. This approach is effective in developing autonomous system capabilities for extended-range missions, enhancing effectiveness in reconnaissance, search, and rescue missions. Furthermore, the dissertation introduces an innovative application of enhanced target detection and localization techniques tailored specifically for small UAS deployment. Neural network fine-tuning and AprilTag detector selection are carefully conducted. Augmented by a meticulously designed workflow for performance evaluation and validation, our approach aims to improve the precision of target detection and localization using a single RGB camera module. Additionally, the dissertation presents the implementation of a specialized ground control user interface. Functioning as a centralized command center, the user interface facilitates real-time monitoring and coordination of heterogeneous aerial and ground robotic platforms engaged in collaborative search missions. By streamlining air-ground coordination and human-robot interaction, the custom user interface optimizes the collective capabilities of diverse aerial and ground robotic platforms, enhancing overall mission effectiveness. The experimental results from multi-vehicle autonomous search missions, evaluating centralized and decentralized control in beyond visual line of sight scenarios, are presented, proving the efficacy of the search and revisit framework operating in real-world scenarios. Finally, the dissertation covers the design and implementation of a resilient network link tailored for robotic platforms operating in environments with limited bandwidth. This essential infrastructure enhancement is devised to overcome communication constraints, ensuring reliable data exchange, and strengthening the resilience of autonomous systems in bandwidth-limited environments.enDissertationAerospace engineeringAutonomyPerception