Advances in UAV-Assisted Wireless Communications

Dear Colleagues,

The Special Issue on "Advances in UAV-Assisted Wireless Communications" delves into the transformative impact of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) on modern wireless communication systems. UAVs, with their unique mobility, adaptability, and rapid deployment capabilities, are emerging as critical enablers for enhancing communication coverage, capacity, and efficiency. By bridging gaps in traditional infrastructure and offering innovative solutions to long-standing challenges, UAV-assisted communication systems are becoming a cornerstone in the evolution of next-generation wireless networks.

This Special Issue seeks to showcase cutting-edge research and innovations that highlight the potential of UAVs in revolutionizing wireless communications. Key topics include UAV-assisted 5G and 6G networks, focusing on how UAVs can extend the reach and performance of these advanced systems. Articles on deployment optimization and energy-efficient designs address the pressing need for sustainable and cost-effective UAV operations. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) further enhances the scope of UAV applications, enabling intelligent resource management, trajectory planning, and network optimization.

The issue also explores critical challenges that must be overcome to realize the full potential of UAV-assisted wireless systems. These include interference management to ensure robust connectivity, developing advanced security protocols to safeguard data and communications, and seamlessly integrating UAVs with existing terrestrial and satellite networks. Addressing these challenges is essential for the practical and scalable deployment of UAV-enabled communication platforms.

Real-world applications form a pivotal aspect of this collection, with contributions encouraged from domains such as disaster management, where UAVs can rapidly restore communication in affected areas, and smart cities, where they enhance connectivity for IoT devices and urban infrastructure. Other applications, including remote monitoring, environmental sensing, and rural connectivity, demonstrate UAV-assisted systems' versatility and societal benefits.

This Special Issue aspires to foster a deeper understanding of UAV-based communication technologies and their role in shaping resilient, scalable, and intelligent wireless networks. Bringing together a diverse range of research and practical insights aims to pave the way for innovative solutions and inspire advancements that redefine the wireless communications landscape.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

1. UAVs and 5G/6G networks;
2. UAVs as aerial base stations;
3. Energy efficiency in UAV networks;
4. AI in UAV communication systems;
5. Interference management;
6. UAV trajectory planning;
7. Security in UAV-based communications;
8. UAV-enabled IoT connectivity;
9. Hybrid terrestrial–satellite–UAV systems;
10. Disaster response and emergency communication.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Ruiheng Wu
Dr. Shokrollah Karimian
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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• UAVs and 5G/6G networks
• UAVs as aerial base stations
• energy efficiency in UAV networks
• AI in UAV communication systems
• interference management
• UAV trajectory planning
• security in UAV-based communications
• UAV-enabled IoT connectivity
• hybrid terrestrial–satellite–UAV systems
• disaster response and emergency communication