End-to-End Simulation of 5G NR Integrated Access and Backhaul Networks for Remote Maritime Connectivity

TL;DR

This paper develops and tests an ns-3 simulation module for 5G mmWave IAB networks in maritime environments, enabling realistic end-to-end analysis of connectivity solutions for remote offshore areas.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive ns-3 IAB module with a complete protocol stack and evaluates its performance in maritime scenarios, advancing simulation tools for offshore 5G networks.

Findings

The ns-3 IAB module accurately models end-to-end 5G mmWave networks.

Simulations reveal optimal topologies for maritime connectivity.

Wireless backhaul maintains connectivity under various channel conditions.

Abstract

Millimeter wave (mmWave) 5th generation (5G) networks offer high data rates but face coverage challenges due to severe path loss and blockage. These problems motivate the use of Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) as a flexible wireless backhaul solution that extends connectivity to cell boundaries and unfibered areas, including maritime environments. This paper overviews the latest 3GPP specifications for IAB networks in Releases 16 through 18. Then, it presents an ns-3 module for IAB, featuring a complete end-to-end protocol stack, including the backhaul adaptation protocol (BAP) layer, flexible slot and control configurations, and multiplexing schemes based on both time and frequency division. We test the IAB module via extensive system-level simulations in a custom maritime scenario where vessels, equipped with IAB-nodes, can simultaneously act as access points and relays, forming dynamic multi-hop networks that maintain connectivity via wireless backhaul to shore-based stations. We evaluate different topologies and channel conditions, providing insights into the design and deployment of mmWave IAB networks in offshore environments.