Navigating Handover Technique: A Comprehensive Review of UAV-Based Communication Systems

Abstract

The evolution of modern communication systems into fifth-generation (5G) and sixth-generation (6G) networks has introduced new challenges and opportunities in handover decision techniques, particularly in dynamic and heterogeneous environments. Traditional handover methods, which rely on received signal strength, often result in frequent handovers, especially for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) acting as drone base stations (DBSs). This frequent handover can degrade network performance and reduce service reliability, particularly in emergency scenarios where rapid and stable connectivity is critical. The purpose of this research survey is to provide a comprehensive review of existing handover decision techniques in UAV-based communication systems, methodically analysing the advantages and limitations of each method. By reviewing recent research papers sourced from leading databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, and IEEE, this survey identifies key trends, methodologies, and performance metrics used in the field. In the analysis of categories, various performance metrics are used to evaluate handover techniques. The shortcomings identified in current research are discussed in the research gaps and issues section, offering a thorough overview of the current state of UAV-based communication systems. This survey enhances the understanding of handover decision techniques, setting the stage for the development of more efficient and reliable drone communication networks.