Design and Validate C3 Links for BVLOS Operations Based on SORA Regulations

Abstract

To achieve technical compliance with the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) framework is a significant challenge for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. A reliable Command, Control, and Communication (C3) Data Link that meets SORA regulations is crucial for integrating drones safely in sectors that face high risk and labour shortages, such as inspection of long power transmission lines and wind turbines. In this work, we focus on C2 design aspects of an in-house data link tailored to BVLOS drone operations. Central to our design approach is the operational and mission capability diagram, which bridges the practical operational needs with key SORA objectives.

We implement a systematic process to translate relevant SORA objectives into quantifiable technical requirements, referencing 3GPP standards and JARUS guidelines. Subsequently, we design a sequence diagram mapping C2 data link functions to operational scenarios, which transforms into a logical architecture supporting modular Models-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).

We perform test and results show data received by the Ground Control Station (GCS) server increased by threefold while latency reduced by 92\% by making improvements to the Scheduler and Link Manager modules respectively. In addition, we design a Link Manager simulation to offer clear metric visualisation to enable more confidence in operator assessment before physical flight trials. We show using simulations and experiments the benefits of our design. Our proposed framework enables wider drone deployment for BVLOS missions in the Netherlands and across Europe.