About the Project

AeroNet builds on ongoing 3GPP standardization trends and relevant market scenarios to deliver a 5G NRNTN network and experimental platform for enabling IFBC services. This initiative, referred to as “AeroNet,” aims to merge disciplinary research fields encompassing intelligent systems, mobile and satellite communications, and practical experimentation covering analysis, simulation, and validation.

In addition to advancing innovation in aerial networking and simulation tool development, the research approach is the basis for a SE (staff exchange) training action (industry-academic partnership), designed to enhance both the career potential of staff members and innovation capacity at the institutional level.

AeroNet has defined the following objectives:

  • Design a new evolutionary architecture to provide integrated terrestrial-aerial-satellite connectivity as part of the 6G paradigm to ensure a seamless 5G QoS experience, including lower RTD through exploiting Non-GSO constellations.
  • Design and validate next-generation aerial networking protocols with enhanced interference management, mobility resilience, and non-orthogonal access techniques. Develop and integrate conformal, aircraft-optimized antenna solutions for reliable, high-performance in-flight connectivity.
  • Design AI-based Self-Organised Networks for network management in aerial networks.
  • Extend conventional 2D system-level simulators with full 3D spatial modelling capabilities tailored to aerial network dynamics, including altitude-dependent propagation and mobility. Develop Monte-Carlo based frameworks for accurate 3D interference, trajectory evolution, and aerial-to-ground link behavior, and validate these enhanced 3D SLS tools through representative aerial deployment scenarios.

For further information regarding the project and the EU grant approval, please check the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.