Ultra-Reliable and Low-Latency 5G Systems for Port Automation

5G technology brings significant potential for enabling port automation, leading to improved flexibility, predictability, and safety in ports. In this article, we present main drivers and technologies required for port automation. We focus on future communication needs in ports and describe 5G communication networks with their ultra-reliable, low-latency, and high-capacity capabilities as a connectivity solution to forge the advanced technologies required to realize port automation. Extensive multi-cell simulations built on realistic measurement-based propagation models and prototype testing in lab and port environments demonstrate the 5G capabilities for ports.