Integrating Terrestrial and Non-terrestrial Networks: 3D Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

Integrating terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks has the potential of connecting the unconnected and enhancing the user experience for the already-connected, with technological and societal implications of the greatest long-term significance. A convergence of ground, air, and space wireless communications also represents a formidable endeavor for the mobile and satellite communications industries alike, as it entails defining and intelligently orchestrating a new 3D wireless network architecture. In this article, we present the key opportunities and challenges arising from this (r)evolution by presenting some of its disruptive use-cases and key building blocks, reviewing the relevant standardization activities, and pointing to open research problems. By considering two multi-operator paradigms, we also showcase how terrestrial networks could be efficiently re-engineered to cater for aerial services, or opportunistically complemented by nonterrestrial infrastructure to augment their current capabilities.

Implementation of mmWave long‐range backhaul for UAV‐BS

“…In Section 3.2, we present the antenna gains of the MBH hub and terminal at 35 dBi and 22.9 dBi, respectively. For the link budget analysis, we utilized the freespace path loss (FSPL) model given in (1), where d denotes the distance between antennas, and f represents the frequency of the radio wave. Additionally, we considered a transmit power of 16.5 dBm to prevent clipping caused by the peak-to-average power ratio (PAPR), a 5-dB system margin, and a 7-dB noise figure.…”

“…To lessen this burden, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) is actively exploring the integration of nonterrestrial networks (NTNs) to extend the reach of networks from the ground to space, thereby enabling complete 5G service coverage for remote terrestrial areas. Moreover, owing to its geographically unconstrained nature, the NTN is well-suited for use in support of public safety, disaster relief, and emergency operations [1,2].…”

UAV Communications in Integrated Terrestrial and Non-terrestrial Networks

“…While mainly targeting underserved areas, NTNs may also be leveraged to augment urban connectivity, e.g., with a terrestrial network (TN) operator opportunistically leasing spectrum and infrastructure from an NTN one. Indeed, the ongoing 3GPP efforts towards TN-NTN integration will allow mobile devices to seamlessly switch from one segment to the other [22]- [24].…”

“…As the penetration of UAVs increases, a TN operator intending to provide aerial connectivity may choose to lease infrastructure and spectrum from an NTN operator[22]. While the latter would primarily deploy and operate LEO constellations to cover currently underserved areas, their inherent mobility makes them available over urban areas as well, generating opportunities in the multi-operator scenario considered in this paper.…”