Challenges Encountered with Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) in Underwater Communication

Underwater communication is vital for various marine applications, including oceanographic data collection, underwater exploration, offshore industry operations, and defense activities. While acoustic communication is the primary mode for wireless underwater communication due to its long propagation range, it faces significant challenges such as multipath propagation, signal attenuation, and distortion. Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs) have emerged as a promising technology to enhance wireless communication by manipulating electromagnetic waves to control signal propagation. This paper discusses the integration of RIS in underwater acoustic communication, the challenges faced, and the potential solutions to improve communication reliability and performance in shallow-water and deep-water environments, focusing on transmission loss and attenuation factors.