Airborne Communication Networks for Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems

TLDR

Small unmanned aircraft systems promise new civil applications, disruptive technologies, and increased air traffic control demands. The study investigates whether meshed airborne communication networks can meet the operational demands of future large numbers of small UAVs. The authors analyze meshed ad hoc networking and controlled mobility strategies to enhance UAV communication performance. Experiments show that meshed airborne communication is feasible, expands UAV operational envelopes, introduces communication variability, and enables net‑centric multi‑aircraft operations.

Abstract

This paper explores the role of meshed airborne communication networks in the operational performance of small unmanned aircraft systems. Small unmanned aircraft systems have the potential to create new applications and markets in civil domains, enable many disruptive technologies, and put considerable stress on air traffic control systems. We argue that of the existing networked communication architectures, only meshed ad hoc networking can meet the communication demands for the large number of small aircraft expected to be deployed in future. Experimental results using the heterogeneous unmanned aircraft system are presented to show that meshed airborne communication is feasible, that it extends the operational envelope of small unmanned aircraft at the expense of increased communication variability, and that net-centric operation of multiple cooperating aircraft is possible. Additionally, the ability of airborne networks of small unmanned aircraft to exploit controlled mobility to improve performance is discussed.