News & Events
UC-CITIES-3 Showcases Drone-Based Private 5G Network for Disaster Recovery
On 14 April 2026, the 6G-PATH UC-CITIES-3 use case was demonstrated at the Aveiro Testbed (Portugal) during the XI Seminário IDN Jovem, presenting a drone-based Private 5G network for disaster recovery.
The trial showed how UAVs can rapidly deploy emergency communications in disrupted areas. One drone carried a gNodeB (gNB) and UPF to provide connectivity, while another used a Starlink Mini backhaul link to extend network access.
Operators tested the ADS MCX application, sending messages, images, and live video through the temporary 5G infrastructure to an edge server, demonstrating fast deployment and operational flexibility for emergency scenarios.
The system was presented to military and police authorities, researchers, students, and citizens, who evaluated its usability and impact.
The results confirmed the potential of drone-enabled 5G networks to support mission-critical communications and disaster response operations.
The UC-CITIES-3 trial video is available here:
UC-CITIES-3 Trial Video
Additional information about the event can be found here:
XI Seminário IDN Jovem Event Information
