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Research

Shaping the Future:

Europe’s Pioneering Role in 6G with

Integrated Non-Terrestrial Networks

The advent of 6G technology in which terrestrial infrastructures, Another primary value propositions
is poised to revolutionize the satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles of NTNs lies in their ability to support
telecommunications landscape, (UAVs), and high-altitude platforms a diverse range of applications. These
with non-terrestrial networks (HAPS) will converge to enable include real-time Internet of Things
(NTNs) playing a pivotal role in this innovative mobile services. (IoT) services, emergency response
transformation. The definition of services, high-speed mobility, and high-
the 6G standard is underway, but The integration of NTNs into 6G throughput hybrid multiplay services.
NTNs are consistently recognized as systems is not without its challenges. LEO satellite backhaul solutions, in
essential to future fully integrated Each layer of the architecture: particular, can enhance network
systems. Their disruptive potential terrestrial, airborne, and space resilience and availability, providing a
to transform connectivity, support presents unique research hurdles secure and reliable connectivity option.
diverse applications, and bridge that need to be solved and for which
the digital divide underscores the standardization will be fundamental. Moreover, this convergence of
profound impact NTNs will have on At the same time, the potential terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks
the future of telecommunications. benefits are substantial. NTNs (TN-NTN) is expected to drive
promise of providing cost-effective innovation in network management
For Europe, this presents an and ubiquitous wireless coverage and orchestration. Advanced
unparalleled opportunity to lead in the is compelling. This will be crucial in techniques for managing interference,
next frontier of telecommunications. extending mobile services to areas optimizing handovers between TN and
The Smart Networks and Services that are currently underserved. NTN, and efficiently allocating spectral
Joint Undertaking (SNS JU) vision Importantly, the integration of NTNs in resources will be essential to guarantee
for 6G is inherently multilayered, 6G systems could help to finally close full-service reliability.
involving a symbiotic relationship the digital divide, offering affordable
between terrestrial, airborne, and and accessible internet services to The integration of non-terrestrial
space nodes. This approach envisions billions of people worldwide who are networks (NTNs) within the framework
a 3D heterogeneous architecture currently unconnected. of 6G is being significantly propelled

20 Enjoy! The ETSI Mag – August 2024