An operator-centric technical study on hybrid terrestrial–NTN integration for 6G-ready cellular networks
This repository contains an independent system-level study analyzing how Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) can be practically integrated with existing terrestrial cellular networks, with a forward-looking alignment to 6G design principles.
The focus is on architecture, performance trade-offs, mobility, spectrum coexistence, and deployment feasibility from a mobile network operator (MNO) perspective.
Status: Completed system-level study (conceptual + analytical)
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As cellular networks evolve toward 6G, coverage continuity, resilience, and global reach become fundamental design goals. NTN—enabled by LEO, MEO, and GEO satellites—offers a powerful complement to terrestrial networks, particularly in remote, rural, maritime, desert, disaster-prone, and cross-border regions.
This study:
- Treats NTN as a native access extension, not a bolt-on solution
- Emphasizes system-level KPIs, not physical-layer simulations
- Bridges the gap between academic NTN research and operator deployment reality
- NTN access is subject to UE capability and operator enablement, in line with 3GPP NTN specifications
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This work aims to:
1. Model and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to integrated terrestrial–NTN networks
2. Quantify performance differences between terrestrial access and NTN access using LEO, MEO, and GEO satellite systems
3. Identify system-level limitations affecting service quality and continuity
4. Propose optimization strategies aligned with 6G principles and operator constraints
5. Provide practical insights to guide future research, standardization, and deployment decisions
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To maintain practical relevance, the study adopts the following scope:
- Focus on system-level behavior, not detailed PHY or protocol implementation
- Downlink-centric analysis, with uplink discussed conceptually
- Simplified but realistic propagation and mobility models
- Emphasis on operator-relevant KPIs (latency, RTT, Doppler, coverage continuity)
- NTN primarily considered for areas without existing terrestrial coverage
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- Hybrid terrestrial–NTN architecture
- UE access selection and mobility behavior
- Orbit-aware performance comparison (LEO / MEO / GEO)
- Latency, RTT, Doppler, and service continuity analysis
- Border interference and spectrum coexistence considerations
- Practical use cases:
- Remote oil & gas fields
- Desert highways and crossings
- Mountain trekking regions
- Disaster recovery and emergency communications
- Operator-friendly deployment and monetization perspectives
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Download the full PDF study here:
(Available in this repository)
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If you reference or build upon this study, please cite it as:
Khan, A. (2026).
6G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN): A System-Level Architectural Study.
Independent Technical Study.
Available at: https://github.com/adeelkhan-learning/6G-NTN-System-Level-Study
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This study is written for:
- Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)
- RAN / Core / System architects
- NTN and satellite communication engineers
- 5G-Advanced and 6G researchers
- Telecom regulators and spectrum planners
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Author: Adeel Naim Khan
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This work represents an independent technical study based on publicly available information, engineering judgment, and system-level modeling. It does not represent proprietary data or the official position of any operator or vendor.
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Note: NTN access depends on UE capability and operator enablement in accordance with 3GPP NTN specifications.
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Keywords: 6G, NTN, Non-Terrestrial Networks, LEO, MEO, GEO, 5G-Advanced, Satellite-Cellular Integration, Hybrid Access