5G meets satellite: Non-terrestrial network architecture and 3GPP |
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Authors: | Gino Masini Philippe Reininger Mohamed El Jaafari Alexander Vesely Nicolas Chuberre Benjamin Baudry Jean-Michel Houssin |
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Affiliation: | 1. Ericsson, Stockholm, Sweden;2. Huawei, Paris, France;3. Thales Alenia Space, Toulouse, France;4. Ericsson, Vienna, Austria |
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Abstract: | With 3GPP Release-17, global 5G standards now support non-terrestrial mobile networks comprising radio access network, terminals, and core network. This enables multi-vendor interoperability as well as interoperability with 3GPP-compliant 5G systems. This paper describes the key features enabling the NG-RAN architecture defined for 5G to support non-terrestrial networks. Starting from a general overview of NG-RAN and of the new paradigms of NTN, we introduce the NTN functionality in NG-RAN specifications with respect to feeder link switchover, cell handling, terminal registration, and OAM aspects. We also discuss different scenarios combining satellite access with 3GPP-defined core networks. We also describe some further enhancements expected to be seen in the next 3GPP release (Rel-18). We believe current and upcoming 3GPP work for NTN represents a solid basis on which 5G satellite networks can be built in the upcoming future. |
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