Optimizing MIMO Systems for UAV Communication Networks

Dear Colleagues,

The rapid emergence of the Low-Altitude Economy (LAE) represents a transformative paradigm shift in urban mobility, emergency response, and aerial logistics, with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) serving as the cornerstone of this revolution. As UAVs increasingly operate in densely populated urban environments and complex airspace scenarios, the demand for reliable, high-capacity, and low-latency communication systems has become paramount. Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) technology, with its proven capability to enhance spectral efficiency, improve link reliability, and support multiple simultaneous data streams, presents a critical solution for addressing the unique communication challenges in UAV networks. 

The goal of this Special Issue is to collect papers (original research articles and review papers) to give insights on advancing the state-of-the-art in MIMO-optimized UAV communication systems specifically tailored for low-altitude operations. We seek contributions that address the complex interplay between dynamic UAV mobility, three-dimensional channel characteristics, interference management, and energy efficiency constraints inherent in LAE applications. The issue will explore innovative approaches to MIMO system design, including adaptive beamforming techniques, spatial multiplexing strategies, and intelligent resource allocation algorithms that can adapt to rapidly changing network topologies and user demands. 

We welcome submissions spanning both theoretical and experimental perspectives, including analytical modeling, algorithm design, system optimization, testbeds, and field trials. Relevant themes include, but are not limited to:

• MIMO channel modeling and characterization for air-to-ground and air-to-air communication
• Adaptive beamforming and precoding techniques for mobile UAV platforms
• Interference mitigation and spectrum sharing in dense UAV deployments
• Energy-efficient MIMO system design for battery-constrained UAVs
• Machine learning and AI-driven optimization of MIMO parameters
• Integration of MIMO systems with 5G/6G networks for UAV connectivity
• Performance analysis and optimization of MIMO-UAV networks in urban environments
• Security and privacy considerations in MIMO-enabled UAV communications
• Testbed development and experimental validation of MIMO-UAV systems
• Standardization and regulatory aspects of MIMO-UAV networks in LAE

We look forward to receiving your original research articles and reviews.

Dr. Zheng Chu
Dr. De Mi
Dr. Berna Bulut Cebecioglu
Guest Editors

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