Design Master Talks | Liu Changjie: Research and Practice on China Mobile's Low-Altitude Intelligent Connectivity and Regulatory System
The rapid development of the low-altitude economy is remarkable, with Hebei Province accelerating future industries such as aerospace information, advanced computing, AI, and green hydrogen. At the 2024 Hebei International Industrial Design Week—Xiongan Design Innovation Forum, Liu Changjie, Director of Networked Drones and System Architect at China Mobile (Chengdu) Industrial Research Institute, delivered a speech on China Mobile's Low-Altitude Intelligent Connectivity and Regulatory System: Research and Practice.
In December 2023, China’s Central Economic Work Conference elevated the low-altitude economy to a strategic emerging industry, highlighting its importance. Liu emphasized that developing this sector requires building a service network across four layers: infrastructure, air connectivity, route planning, and application services. He noted that China’s telecom operators have unique advantages in constructing low-altitude communication and navigation networks to support industry growth.
Challenges and Solutions
A key bottleneck is limited airspace openness due to insufficient regulatory technology. China Mobile proposes managing drones like mobile phones—equipping each with a SIM card for real-time tracking. Another challenge is drone communication: most operate on a "one-base-one-drone" model, restricting range and real-time data exchange. China Mobile’s 5G-connected drones replace traditional links with mobile networks, enabling beyond-visual-range control. Future urban low-altitude operations may rely on centralized dispatch centers.
5G-A Integrated Sensing and Communication
5G-A base stations now offer radar-like detection alongside connectivity. Partnering with Meituan and SF Express, China Mobile extends 5G coverage to 300 meters, with dedicated networks for higher altitudes. Its 4,400 BeiDou-enhanced base stations provide centimeter-level precision, vital for both manned and unmanned aircraft.
Low-Altitude Applications
China Mobile focuses on intelligent networking and regulatory platforms, featuring:
1. Smart Airspace Planning: Using BeiDou’s 4D grid for dynamic management.
2. 5G-A Secure Drone Access: Pioneering verified drone identification in 5G-A networks.
3. Lifecycle Management: Tracking drones via embedded IDs, akin to vehicle VINs.
4. Traffic Command Systems: Offering 24/7 flight monitoring, route optimization, and data fusion for logistics and inspections.
5. Drone Detection and Countermeasures: Addressing security threats with specialized networks.
6. Emergency Communications: Deploying drone-mounted base stations for disaster response, certified by national authorities.
Liu concluded, “As a telecom leader, China Mobile is committed to advancing the low-altitude economy and contributing to Xiongan’s development.”
