MmWave MU-MIMO for Aerial Networks

Abstract: Millimeter wave offers high bandwidth for air-to-air (A2A) communication. In this paper, we evaluate the rate performance of a multiuser MIMO (MU-MIMO) configuration where several aircraft communicate with a central hub. We consider a hybrid subarray architecture, single path channels, and realistic atmospheric attenuation effects. We propose a mathematical framework for the analysis of millimeter wave (mmWave) MU-MIMO networks. Via Monte Carlo simulation, we demonstrate that mmWave is a promising technology for delivering gigabit connectivity in next-generation aerial networks.