The Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking has launched its second portfolio of 28 research and innovation projects, bringing the total SNS initiative to 63 projects with combined funding of approximately 382 million EUR under Horizon Europe. These initiatives aim to establish a robust European supply chain for advanced 5G systems and 6G technologies through evolutionary enhancements and revolutionary enablers like AI, Open RAN, and Non-Terrestrial Networks. The portfolio includes 19 research projects focusing on system architectures and security, three projects developing reusable EU-wide experimental platforms, and four large-scale trials targeting vertical sectors such as automotive, health, and smart cities. Coordination and Support Actions like SNS ICE and SNS OPS facilitate global stakeholder dialogue, monitor 6G trends, and promote the European view on next-generation network evolution.
Source: https://smart-networks.europa.eu/sns-journal-2024/
Keywords: Open RAN, Non-Terrestrial Networks, AI-based edge platforms, 6G experimentation platforms, Societal challenges