Maximizing Channel Capacity in HAP-UAV Networks - A Comparative Study of Single vs. Multi-Antenna Configurations with Maximum Ratio Combining

This paper investigates the effects of using single and multiple antennas on High Altitude Platforms (HAPs) and their influence on channel capacity in HAP-UAV communication systems.HAPs are emerging as a key technology in enhancing wireless networks due to their high altitude, providing significant coverage and line-ofsight (LoS) links with UAVs and ground users.This study explores two configurations: HAP systems equipped with a single antenna and HAP systems with multiple antennas.The main goal is to analyze the throughput performance and the impact of HAP antenna configuration on communication efficiency.By leveraging Maximum Ratio Combining (MRC) techniques in multi-antenna HAP systems, we aim to show how this method significantly enhances channel capacity by mitigating interference and maximizing the received signal strength.Our results highlight that while a single-antenna HAP offers moderate channel performance, the deployment of multiple antennas with MRC considerably boosts system capacity.This, in turn, improves the data rate and reliability of communication between HAPs and UAVs, making the multi-antenna configuration a preferred solution for future wireless networks.