The market for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) cellular ecosystem is still in its early stages, with the primary players being UAS platform providers, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) providing communication services to UAS operators, and government authorities regulating drone operations.
This whitepaper explores all aspects of the ecosystem for UAS Voice Relay and data information exchange, covering MNOs, C2 service providers, onboard components for the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), remote pilot stations, Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM), and relevant ground infrastructures. While the primary focus is on MNOs and cellular connectivity, the paper acknowledges the possibility of using other forms of connectivity, such as satellites.
Providing a detailed overview of the various entities involved in cellular communications for UAS and their interrelationships will assist the Aerial Connectivity Joint Activity (ACJA) group in coordinating their efforts and establishing a common vocabulary.
ACJA is a collaboration initiative between GUTMA and the GSMA. Its goal is to promote the exchange between the aviation and cellular communities and the related Standard Development Organisations (SDOs) to generate harmonized standards and avoid incompatibilities. Find out more about the initiative here.