Abstract
Reliable command and control channels to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are needed to allow beyond visual line of sight (LoS) operations. Cellular networks, with their almost ubiquitous coverage, are an obvious candidate to provide such conditions. However, up to which extent the current networks designed for ground users can support UAV communications is an open question. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive theoretical analysis, using stochastic geometry, of the performance that operators could expect from traditional cellular networks with omnidirectional antennas when supporting UAV downlink command and control channels. Our study employs the latest UAV height-dependent path loss model defined by the 3GPP, with LoS and non-LoS transmissions and a probabilistic model to switch between them. We derive analytical expressions for the coverage probability and area spectral efficiency, while accounting for base stations with idle mode capabilities, a practical finite UAV density, and different UAV heights. Results show that networks based on base stations with omnidirectional coverage can support low-height UAVs but will struggle with high-height ones. Network densification helps to provide a better performance.
Published Version
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