Advances in Satellite/UAV Communications

Dear Colleagues,

As key enablers of next-generation communication systems, satellite and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) communications are becoming increasingly vital for the ubiquitous connections of the future Internet of Everything. These platforms, however, face unique challenges due to inherent constraints such as limited power, compact size, and restricted bandwidth, coupled with characteristics such as long transmission distances, high terminal mobility, and rapidly time-varying channels. How to build novel network architectures, adaptive coding/modulation schemes, and intelligent resource management solutions to enhance transmission efficiency and reliability under these conditions remains a critical challenge. Furthermore, operating in wide-area and open environments makes satellite and UAV communications more vulnerable to eavesdropping and information interception, posing significant security risks. Designing robust solutions to ensure secure data transmission is an urgent priority. To address these issues, this Special Issue aims to explore the latest innovative technologies and methodologies, including but not limited to efficient resource allocation, adaptive modulation schemes, physical-layer security, and AI-driven optimization techniques in the area of satellite/UAV communications and networking. Contributions addressing integration with emerging 6G paradigms such as integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), and edge intelligence are particularly encouraged.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Satellite/UAV communication network architecture;
2. Resource allocation and network control;
3. Advanced channel coding/modulation schemes;
4. Integrated sensing and communication;
5. Physical-layer security for satellite/UAV communications;
6. Grant-free massive/random access techniques;
7. AI-empowered solutions for satellite/UAV network orchestration;
8. Mobility and interference management;
9. Routing/MAC protocols for satellite/UAV networks;
10. Edge computing and service provisioning.

Dr. Zhao Chen
Dr. Ji Wang
Dr. Zhe Ji
Guest Editors

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