Seamless UAV integration: a framework for network slicing as a service in 5G and beyond

Abstract

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have demonstrated remarkable versatility across monitoring, delivery, and data collection applications. However, the growing complexity of network architectures with 5G and Beyond 5G (B5G) necessitates innovative solutions like network slicing, which faces challenges in radio access network (RAN) efficiency and optimization under higher frequencies. This paper introduces a novel framework for seamless UAV-assisted net work slicing as a service. By integrating UAVs directly into the network infrastructure, the framework enables on-demand delivery of tailored network slices to end users, addressing the limitations of traditional terrestrial approaches while enhancing efficiency and scalability. The proposed framework allows service providers and network administrators to deliver slices more effectively, while specifically tackling high-frequency RAN challenges by deploying UAVs as close-proximity relays to users. A key contribution is complete compatibility and interoperability with existing cellular infrastructure, ensuring seamless integration. The paper presents critical foundational concepts and a literature review, followed by the proposed framework’s architecture, layers, and methodology. Comprehensive tests and comparisons evaluate the framework’s performance, concluding with a discussion of applications and potential enhancements.