Maritime Fleet-Based 5G Network Extension: A Model for Cross-border Coastal Applications

Adoption of the 5G network technology in the maritime industry is challenging. As the industry is international and cross-border with literal moving targets, many research and standardization efforts have focused on the provision of secure, fast and reliable access to 5G networks. We used a novel approach to estimate the necessity of base stations required to provide 5G access at a reasonable level via a multi-hop solution, where each base station acts asboth a service provider and a relay to other base stations. In the modelling and economic value analysis, we used data from Automatic Identification System (AIS) and logistics/travel data in the Northern Europe area covering around 0.8 billion data points. As extending 5G coverage for maritime applications through the strategic placement of floating base stations presents both unique networking technology challenges and opportunities, we aim to identify both network technology carriers and main beneficiaries. The model simulates 5G signal propagation over the water considering possible locations for terrestrial base stations and opportunities of using floating platforms or large vessels as base stations. The results can be used as a guideline for evaluating optimal technology implementation and targeted economic use cases.