Harnessing the Potential of Omnidirectional Multi-Rotor Aerial Vehicles in Cooperative Jamming Against Eavesdropping

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel use of omnidirectional multi-rotor aerial vehicles for cooperative jamming to improve communication security against eavesdroppers, leveraging their advanced control capabilities.

Contribution

It presents a new strategy employing omnidirectional MRAVs as aerial base stations and friendly jammers for secure communications, a first in this context.

Findings

Demonstrates effective eavesdropper disruption using MRAV-based jamming.

Shows improved communication security with omnidirectional control.

Validates the approach through simulation results.

Abstract

Recent research in communications-aware robotics has been propelled by advancements in 5G and emerging 6G technologies. This field now includes the integration of Multi-Rotor Aerial Vehicles (MRAVs) into cellular networks, with a specific focus on under-actuated MRAVs. These vehicles face challenges in independently controlling position and orientation due to their limited control inputs, which adversely affects communication metrics such as Signal-to-Noise Ratio. In response, a newer class of omnidirectional MRAVs has been developed, which can control both position and orientation simultaneously by tilting their propellers. However, exploiting this capability fully requires sophisticated motion planning techniques. This paper presents a novel application of omnidirectional MRAVs designed to enhance communication security and thwart eavesdropping. It proposes a strategy where one MRAV functions as an aerial Base Station, while another acts as a friendly jammer to secure communications. This study is the first to apply such a strategy to MRAVs in scenarios involving eavesdroppers.