arXiv subjects

Baha Eddine Youcef Belmekki

Publications and source records attributed to Baha Eddine Youcef Belmekki.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2026

Coverage Analysis of Large-Scale HAPS Networks Using Directional Beams

High-altitude platform stations (HAPS) are pivotal in next-generation wireless networks for reducing core network burdens and enabling cost-effective communication. In this article, we propose a spherical stochastic geometry-based analytical framework for the coverage performance evaluation of HAPS networks. Considering the significant influence of directional antenna gain on interference evaluation, we analyze coverage performance under a general channel model that accommodates various beam patterns. Analytical expressions of the uplink and downlink coverage probabilities in cellular and cell-free networks are provided respectively and their accuracy are verified by Monte Carlo simulation. Furthermore, the influences of network-level and physical-level parameters on coverage probability are studied. Finally, several factors that align with the analytical framework of this article are discussed.

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arXiv2026

High-Altitude Platforms in the Low-Altitude Economy: Bridging Communication, Computing, and Regulation

The Low-Altitude Economy (LAE) is rapidly emerging as a new technological and industrial frontier, with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and aerial swarms increasingly deployed in logistics, infrastructure inspection, security, and emergency response. However, the large-scale development of the LAE demands a reliable aerial foundation that ensures not only real-time connectivity and computational support, but also navigation integrity and safe airspace management for safety-critical operations. High-Altitude Platforms (HAPs), positioned at around 20 km, provide a unique balance between wide-area coverage and low-latency responsiveness. Compared with low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, HAPs are closer to end users and thus capable of delivering millisecond-level connectivity, fine-grained regulatory oversight, and powerful onboard computing and caching resources. Beyond connectivity and computation, HAPs-assisted sensing and regulation further enable navigation integrity and airspace trust, which are essential for safety-critical UAV and eVTOL operations in the LAE. This article proposes a five-stage evolutionary roadmap for HAPs in the LAE: from serving as aerial infrastructure bases, to becoming super back-ends for UAV, to acting as frontline support for ground users, further enabling swarm-scale UAV coordination, and ultimately advancing toward edge-air-cloud closed-loop autonomy. In parallel, HAPs complement LEO satellites and cloud infrastructures to form a global-regional-local three-tier architecture. Looking forward, HAPs are expected to evolve from simple platforms into intelligent hubs, emerging as pivotal nodes for air traffic management, intelligent logistics, and emergency response. By doing so, they will accelerate the transition of the LAE toward large-scale deployment, autonomy, and sustainable growth.

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arXiv2025

The Triple-C Paradigm: Cooperative, Complementary, and Competitive Modes for TBS-HAPS-LEO Integration

The growing demands of ubiquitous and resilient global coverage have pushed existing networks to their operational limits, making it increasingly difficult to meet all requirements on their own. Integrating \emph{Terrestrial Base Stations (TBS), High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS)} and \emph{Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO)} satellites is envisioned as a promising solution, yet the coordination across these heterogeneous platforms remains an open challenge. This paper proposes a novel unifying \emph{Triple-C framework: Cooperation, Complementarity, and Competition}, that systematically defines the TBS-HAPS-LEO interaction to deliver seamless resilient and scalable connectivity. For each C, we detail the architectural methodology, required pre-requisites, and measurable deliverables that govern when and how the three layers should collaborate, complement each other, or contend. We further identify the enabling technologies across physical, logical, and cognitive layers to operationalize the proposed 3C paradigm. A rich portfolio of use cases and targeted applications demonstrates how this technological leap will make such integration both feasible and impactful. Comprehensive performance analysis and emulation results quantify the trade-offs of such integrated networks. In addition, we examine the economical, environmental, safety, privacy, standardization, and regulatory implications that shape the real-world implementation of the proposed framework. eventually, we provide the gap analysis, outline key technical/non-technical challenges, and a road-map of future research directions needed to unlock the full potential of Cooperation, Complementarity, and Competition operations in TBS-HAPS-LEO integrated networks.

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arXiv2025

THz/RF Multi-Hop Routing Throughput: Performance, Optimization, and Application

Terahertz (THz) communication offers a promising solution for high-throughput wireless systems. However, the severe path loss of THz signals raises concerns about its effectiveness compared to radio frequency (RF) communication. In this article, we establish the first stochastic geometry (SG)-based analytical framework for routing in THz systems. We develop a stepwise optimization approach to maximize throughput, including power allocation, relay selection, and number of hops design. Analytical expressions for throughput and coverage probability are derived under the SG framework, enabling low complexity and scalable performance evaluation. Numerical results show that the proposed stepwise-optimal routing strategies not only outperform existing SG-based methods but also approach the ideal upper bound. Moreover, we compare the throughput and coverage performance of THz and RF routing and demonstrate the applications of the proposed analytical framework and routing strategies in system parameter design and unmanned aerial vehicle networks.

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arXiv2025

Non-Terrestrial Network Models Using Stochastic Geometry: Planar or Spherical?

With the explosive deployment of non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), the computational complexity of network performance analysis is rapidly escalating. As one of the most suitable mathematical tools for analyzing large-scale network topologies, stochastic geometry (SG) enables the representation of network performance metrics as functions of network parameters, thus offering low-complexity performance analysis solutions. However, choosing between planar and spherical models remains challenging. Planar models neglect Earth's curvature, causing deviations in high-altitude NTN analysis, yet are still often used for simplicity. This paper introduces relative error to quantify the gap between planar and spherical models, helping determine when planar modeling is sufficient. To calculate the relative error, we first propose a point process (PP) generation algorithm that simultaneously generates a pair of homogeneous and asymptotically similar planar and spherical PPs. We then introduce several typical similarity metrics, including topology-related and network-level metrics, and further develop a relative error estimation algorithm based on these metrics. In addition, we derive an analytical expression for the optimal planar altitude, which reduces computational complexity and provides theoretical support for planar approximation. Finally, numerical results investigate how deployment altitude and region affect NTN modeling, with case studies on HAP and LEO satellite constellations.

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arXiv2025

Extended Road-Aware Line-of-Sight Probability Model for Urban Air Mobility

As urban air mobility (UAM) emerges as a transformative solution to urban transportation, the demand for robust communication frameworks capable of supporting high-density aerial traffic becomes increasingly critical. An essential area of communications improvement is reliably characterizing and minimizing interference on UAM aircraft from other aircraft and ground vehicles. To achieve this, accurate line-of-sight (LOS) models must be used. In this work, we highlight the limitations of a LOS probability model extensively used in the literature in accurately predicting interference caused by ground vehicles. Then, we introduce a modified probability of LOS model that improves interference prediction by incorporating the urban topography and the dynamic positioning of ground vehicles on streets. Our model's parameters are derived from extensive simulations and validated through real-world urban settings to ensure reliability and applicability.

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arXiv2024

Network-Level Analysis of Integrated Sensing and Communication Using Stochastic Geometry

To meet the demands of densely deploying communication and sensing devices in the next generation of wireless networks, integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) technology is employed to alleviate spectrum scarcity, while stochastic geometry (SG) serves as a tool for low-complexity performance evaluation. To assess network-level performance, there is a natural interaction between ISAC technology and the SG method. From ISAC network perspective, we illustrate how to leverage SG analytical framework to evaluate ISAC network performance by introducing point process distributions and stochastic fading channel models. From SG framework perspective, we summarize the unique performance metrics and research objectives of ISAC networks, thereby extending the scope of SG research in the field of wireless communications. Additionally, considering the limited discussion in the existing SG-based ISAC works in terms of distribution and channel modeling, a case study is designed to exploit topology and channel fading awareness to provide relevant network insights.

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arXiv2024

Exploring UAV Networking from the Terrain Information Completeness Perspective: A Tutorial

Terrain information is a crucial factor affecting the performance of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) networks. As a tutorial, this article provides a unique perspective on the completeness of terrain information, summarizing and enhancing the research on terrain-based UAV deployment. In the presence of complete terrain information, two highly discussed topics are UAV-aided map construction and dynamic trajectory design based on maps. We propose a case study illustrating the mutually reinforcing relationship between them. When terrain information is incomplete, and only terrain-related feature parameters are available, we discuss how existing models map terrain features to blockage probabilities. By introducing the application of this model with stochastic geometry, a case study is proposed to analyze the accuracy of the model. When no terrain information is available, UAVs gather terrain information during the real-time networking process and determine the next position by collected information. This real-time search method is currently limited to relay communication. In the case study, we extend it to a multi-user scenario and summarize three trade-offs of the method. Finally, we conduct a qualitative analysis to assess the impact of three factors that have been overlooked in terrain-based UAV deployment.

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arXiv2023

Terrain-Based UAV Deployment: Providing Coverage for Outdoor Users

Deploying unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) networks to provide coverage for outdoor users has attracted great attention during the last decade. However, outdoor coverage is challenging due to the high mobility of crowds and the diverse terrain configurations causing building blockage. Most studies use stochastic channel models to characterize the impact of building blockage on user performance and do not take into account terrain information. On the other hand, real-time search methods use terrain information, but they are only practical when a single UAV serves a single user.In this paper, we put forward two methods to avoid building blockage in a multi-user system by collecting prior terrain information and using real-time search.We proposed four algorithms related to the combinations of the above methods and their performances are evaluated and compared in different scenarios.By adjusting the height of the UAV based on terrain information collected before networking, the performance is significantly enhanced compared to the one when no terrain information is available.The algorithm based on real-time search further improves the coverage performance by avoiding the shadow of buildings. During the execution of the real-time search algorithm, the search distance is reduced using the collected terrain information.

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arXiv2023

Aerial-Aided mmWave VANETs Using NOMA: Performance Analysis, Comparison, and Insights

In this paper, we propose the integration of tethered flying platforms in cooperative vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs) to alleviate the problems of rapid urbanization. In this context, we study the performance of VANETs by deriving approximate outage probability and average achievable rate expressions using tools from stochastic geometry. We compare between the usage of networked tethered flying platforms (NTFPs) and traditional roadside units (RSUs). On the other hand, the rapid increase of smart devices in vehicles and the upcoming urban air mobility (UAM) vision will congest the spectrum and require increased data rates. Hence, we use non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) to improve spectral efficiency and compare its performance to orthogonal access schemes. Furthermore, we utilize millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies for high data rates and implement a sectored beamforming model. We extensively study the system using three transmission schemes: direct, relay, and hybrid transmission. The results show that when acting as relays, NTFPs outperform RSUs for larger distances between the transmitting and the receiving vehicles, while RSUs outperform NTFPs for short distances. However, NTFPs are the best solution when acting as a source. Moreover, we find that, in most cases, direct transmission is preferred to achieve a high rate compared to other schemes. Finally, the results are summarized in two tables that provide insights into connecting VANETs by selecting the most suitable platform and type of communication for a given set of parameters, configurations, and requirements.

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arXiv2023

HAPS in the Non-Terrestrial Network Nexus: Prospective Architectures and Performance Insights

High altitude platform stations (HAPS) have recently emerged as a new key stratospheric player in non-terrestrial networks (NTN) alongside satellites and low-altitude platforms. In this paper, we present the main communication links between HAPS and other NTN platforms, their advantages, and their challenges. Then, prospective network architectures in which HAPS plays an indispensable role in the future NTNs are presented such as ad-hoc, cell-free, and integrated access and backhaul. To showcase the importance of HAPS in the NTN, we provide comprehensive performance insights when using HAPS in the prospective architectures with the most suitable communication link. The insights show the HAPS' ability to interconnect the NTN nexus as well as their versatility by incorporating different metrics into the analysis such as routing latency, energy efficiency, coverage probability, and channel capacity. Depending on the architecture, HAPS will play different roles in NTN, such as a UAV network center, satellite relay, and ground network extension. Finally, the performance gain provided by HAPS usage in NTN is further highlighted by comparing the results when no HAPS are used.

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arXiv2023

Harnessing the Potential of Optical Communications for the Metaverse

The Metaverse is a digital world that offers an immersive virtual experience. However, the Metaverse applications are bandwidth-hungry and delay-sensitive that require ultrahigh data rates, ultra-low latency, and hyper-intensive computation. To cater for these requirements, optical communication arises as a key pillar in bringing this paradigm into reality. We highlight in this paper the potential of optical communications in the Metaverse. First, we set forth Metaverse requirements in terms of capacity and latency; then, we introduce ultra-high data rates requirements for various Metaverse experiences. Then, we put forward the potential of optical communications to achieve these data rate requirements in backbone, backhaul, fronthaul, and access segments. Both optical fiber and optical wireless communication (OWC) technologies, as well as their current and future expected data rates, are detailed. In addition, we propose a comprehensive set of configurations, connectivity, and equipment necessary for an immersive Metaverse experience. Finally, we identify a set of key enablers and research directions such as analog neuromorphic optical computing, optical intelligent reflective surfaces (IRS), hollow core fiber (HCF), and terahertz (THz).

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arXiv2023

eVTOL Communications and Networking in UAM: Requirements, Key Enablers, and Challenges

Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft have attracted great attention during the last years as the long-awaited enabler of urban air mobility (UAM), allowing a more sustainable method of transportation and accelerating the development of smart cities. The operation of eVTOLs over urban areas introduces safety hazards for passengers, pedestrians, and buildings, which prioritises safety considerations. Ensuring the safe operation of eVTOLs requires studying their communication, networking, computing requirements. In this paper, we showcase eVTOL requirements in UAM in terms of coverage, data rate, latency, spectrum efficiency, networking, and computing. Then, we identify potential key technological enablers to address these requirements and their challenges. Finally, we carry out a comparative case study between the terrestrial and aerial communication infrastructures to serve eVTOLs in UAM.

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arXiv2023

Coverage Analysis of Hybrid RF/THz Networks With Best Relay Selection

Utilizing terahertz (THz) transmission to enhance coverage has proven various benefits compared to traditional radio frequency (RF) counterparts. This letter proposes a dual-hop decode-and-forward (DF) routing protocol in a hybrid RF and THz relay network named hybrid relay selection (HRS). The coverage probability of the HRS protocol is derived. The HRS protocol prioritizes THz relays for higher data rates or short source-destination distances; and RF relays for lower data rates or large source-destination distances. The proposed HRS protocol offers nearly the same performance as the optimal selection protocol, which requires complete instantaneous channel state information (CSI) of all the nodes.

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arXiv2023

System-Level Metrics for Non-Terrestrial Networks Under Stochastic Geometry Framework

Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) are considered one of the key enablers in sixth-generation (6G) wireless networks; and with their rapid growth, system-level metrics analysis adds crucial understanding into NTN system performance. Applying stochastic geometry (SG) as a system-level analysis tool in the context of NTN offers novel insights into the network tradeoffs. In this paper, we study and highlight NTN common system-level metrics from three perspectives: NTN platform types, typical communication issues, and application scenarios. In addition to summarizing existing research, we study the best-suited SG models for different platforms and system-level metrics which have not been well studied in the literature. In addition, we showcase NTN-dominated prospective application scenarios. Finally, we carry out a performance analysis of system-level metrics for these applications based on SG models.

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arXiv2021

On the Usage of Networked Tethered Flying Platforms for Massive Events -- Case Study: Hajj Pilgrimage

The Hajj is a religious Muslim pilgrimage undertaken annually by 2-3 million people in Makkah. Consequently, several problems arise due to the sheer number of pilgrims, and therefore negatively impact their stay and the conduct of the rituals. During the Hajj, several problems occur related to mobility, security, and connectivity. The current solutions used to deal with these problems have limitations and they usually require a lot of resources with suboptimal results. In this paper, we proposed an aerial-based solution that rely on Networked Tethered Flying Platforms (NTFPs). NTFPs are flying vehicles such as drones, Helikites, and blimps, that are tethered to the ground via a cable that supplies them with constant data and power. NTFPs can fly at high altitude with a great backhaul capacity and large coverage. We show in this paper how NTFP-based solution solve mobility, security, and connectivity problems during the Hajj and the main advantages and benefits as well as the cost-efficiency of such solution. For the sake of completeness, we also present other similar case studies in which NTFPs can be used.

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arXiv2021

Unleashing the Potential of Networked Tethered Flying Platforms for B5G/6G: Prospects, Challenges, and Applications

Researchers are currently speculating about what the role of beyond fifth-generation (B5G) or sixth generation (6G) wireless systems will be. Several use cases and applications are proposed, ranging from enhanced mobile broadband communications and massive ultra-reliable low-latency Communication to holographic telepresence and tactile communications. One crucial and pivotal prospect of 6G is worldwide connectivity. Today, nearly 4 billion people do not have access to an internet connection. 6G not only intends to hyper-connect the already connected, but to bridge the digital divide by connecting the unconnected. For that purpose, 6G architectures will integrate airborne communications as they are considered key enablers for the next generation of wireless systems. Airborne communications can be done via free-flying platforms and tethered flying platforms. Free-flying platforms, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and high-altitude platforms (HAPs) have received great interest during the last decade. However, they lack endurance and backhaul capacity. Networked Tethered Flying Platforms (NTFPs), on the other hand, are enjoying the benefits of free-flying platforms while overcoming their limitations by providing a continuous supply of power and data via the tether. They are also cost-efficient and have good green credentials. Tether platforms have a wide range of applications beyond communications, such as energy harvesting, entertainment, science, research, public safety, disaster relief, government, and defense. In this survey paper, we intend to provide an extensive and comprehensive overview of NTFPs.

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arXiv2020

On the Performance of Cooperative NOMA Using MRC at Road Intersections in the Presence of Interference

As the traffic safety has become of utmost importance, much attention is given to intelligent transportation systems (ITSs), and more particularly to vehicular communications (VCs). Moreover, 50 % of all crashes happen at road intersections, which makes theme a critical areas. In this paper, we investigate the improvement when implementing maximum ratio combining (MRC) in cooperative VCs transmission schemes using non-orthogonal multiple access scheme (NOMA) at road intersections. We consider that a source transmits a message to two destinations with a aid of a relay. The transmission undergoes interference generated from a set of vehicles on the roads. We obtained closed form outage probability expressions, and we extend the derivation for a scenario involving K destination nodes and several road lanes. The performance of MRC cooperative NOMA is compared with the standard cooperative NOMA, and we show that implementing MRC with NOMA offers a significant improvement over the standard cooperative NOMA. Also, we compare the performance of MRC using NOMA with MRC cooperative orthogonal multiple access (OMA), and demonstrate that NOMA significantly outperforms OMA. We conclude that it is always beneficial to use MRC and NOMA even at the cost of implementation complexity. Finally, we demonstrate that the outage probability increases drasticallyen the vehicles are closer to the road intersection, and that using MRC with NOMA improves significantly the performance in this context. To verify the correctness of our analysis, extensive Monte-Carlo simulations are carried out.

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