UAVs as Dynamic Nodes in Communication Networks

TL;DR

This survey reviews UAV roles in 5G/6G networks, including AI integration and security, and introduces a novel UAV-Network-in-a-Box architecture for disaster recovery.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of UAV communication roles, deployment scenarios, and proposes a new UAV-Network-in-a-Box architecture for emergency use.

Findings

UAVs serve as relays, UE, gNB, and RIS in communication networks.

The survey discusses AI integration and security challenges in UAV communications.

Introduces UAV-Network-in-a-Box architecture for disaster recovery.

Abstract

Driven by the demands of 5G/Beyond 5G and 6G networks, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have surfaced in critical roles for aerial communications. In the present survey, we explore the multi-mode roles of UAVs as relays, User Equipment (UE), gNB and Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS), along with their deployment scenarios, architectural frameworks, and different communication models incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) configurations. We consider the effects of alternate power sources on the communication payload. The survey also aims to address security issues in the UAV communications. As an advancement, we propose a novel UAV-Network-in-a-Box (NIB) architecture for disaster recovery and temporary coverage as an alternative to traditional network infrastructure.