WindNet: A Mobile Base Station Infrastructure For Maritime Industry

The maritime industry, encompassing sectors such as wind energy, oil rigs, fishing, global logistics, and cruise tourism, is one of the oldest and fastest-growing. However, it faces significant challenges in establishing communication infrastructure, which is crucial for continuous monitoring, safe operations, and data-driven decision-making. Existing communication systems are inadequate and struggle to support real-time data transfer, which is vital for operational efficiency and safety. To address this gap, we propose WindNet, a novel and cost-effective solution that integrates mobile base stations (MBS) with offshore wind turbines, drones, and floating buoys. WindNet aims to provide reliable connectivity across vast oceanic regions by leveraging advanced next-generation network technology. In this paper, we employ a maritime propagation model to evaluate the area covered by the base stations (BS). Our analysis provides key insights into the range, number of BS, and power needed to build a reliable WindNet mobile network along high-density shipping routes. Furthermore, a comprehensive risk analysis highlights WindNet’s potential to enhance maritime connectivity, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability. By deploying WindNet and tethered drones with floating buoys BS, we aim to create a dynamic mesh network across vast maritime areas, supporting various sectors and driving further advancements in the maritime industry.