SKT prepares for the UAM era through development of commercial network technology.

SKT announced on the 31st that it has developed an integrated solution and simulator for testing, predicting, and analyzing communication quality in the UAM commercial network.

The solution developed this time is a technology that measures the quality of the airspace network by using a drone with a communication environment similar to that of a UAM aircraft flying over urban, semi-urban, and tourist areas at an operating altitude of 300 to 600 m and a cruising speed of 100 to 150 km/h.

The quality data of the airspace network measured by drones is displayed in real time using analysis tools, and the measurement results are visualized in maps, graphs, and diagrams. In addition, the scenario in which UAM passengers use smart devices can be applied to evaluate the quality of the airspace network communication service.


A simulator for predicting communication quality in the airspace network for UAM has also been developed. It is organically integrated and operated with the integrated solution for analyzing communication quality in the airspace network for UAM, and can comprehensively analyze the impact of various factors that affect communication quality, such as flight path and altitude settings, antenna height, upward tilt, orientation angle, and beam pattern. It is expected that it will be useful for calculating investment costs for aerial networks and deriving optimal design methods while taking into account constraints such as base station installation environment and terrestrial network interference.

SKT plans to develop an AI-based optimal design model that recommends optimal communication equipment settings in the future, thereby improving simulator performance, enhancing network quality, and shortening analysis time.

The actual data on the quality of the aerial network measured by drones is reflected in a prediction simulator that applies a standard propagation model and used to minimize prediction errors, and the results of the simulator are subsequently used to improve the performance of demonstration and commercial aerial network communication quality.

Meanwhile, SKT is actively developing various technologies to improve the quality of UAM airspace communications. It is establishing strategic cooperation systems with various manufacturers to advance airspace communications equipment, such as dedicated antennas, upward tilt, beam pattern optimization technology, and aircraft handover technology. Joby Aviation, a global partner in the UAM airframe and operation sectors, is a representative example.

SKT presented its vision for the commercial network for UAM at MWC 2023 in March, and has been conducting communication quality checks in the pilot commercial network testbeds built in Goheung and Yangpyeong since last year. In addition, it is promoting preparations for future networks through 6G global standardization work and white paper publication at related 6G forums.

Ryu Jeong-hwan, Vice President and Head of SKT Infrastructure Strategy Technology CT, said, “In order to develop mobile communication-based commercial network communications for UAM services, technology development is necessary across all areas, including frequency, transmission techniques, and equipment.” He added, “SKT will do its best to develop core technologies for not only 5G but also future 6G evolution so that UAM can become a stable means of transportation for customers.”