UAV-supported communication: Current and prospective solutions

The advancement in wireless communication has significantly resulted in unprecedented new applications and services. This, coupled with Next-Generation Networking (NGN) and the recent advances in cellular communication and networking, predominantly the Fifth-Generation (5G) network, has resulted in the rise of new technological solutions. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) is one such solution that has evolved from its traditional usage in military and civilian applications, towards new and innovative solutions that provide support to wireless communication and networking. With advances in their processing and communication capabilities, UAVs are now supporting both core and edge networks to deliver services to end-users in a reliable and fast manner. The synergy and collective collaboration between UAVs and continuously evolving and progressing technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain are reshaping the landscape of wireless communication and networking, enabling more robust, secure and adaptable systems that transcend traditional limitations. In this article, we explore various collaborative solutions that leverage UAV communication and networks that not only bolster communication between mobile nodes and the core network but also reinforce the edge computing infrastructure. This reinforcement enables scalable data storage and intelligent processing to elevate end-user services and applications. Additionally, we address the obstacles, concerns, and future pathways concerning UAV-supported NGNs.