An Enhanced LDACS Ranging Method Based on Improved Super-Resolution Delay Estimation

The global civil aviation transportation volume is growing rapidly. Countries put forward various strategies for developing a new generation of air transportation system. In this context, spectrum and equipment integration become the development trend to reduce cost and achieve high efficiency. L-band digital aeronautical communications system (LDACS) is the first integrated communication, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) system certified by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). However, the LDACS ranging algorithm still has room for improvement in the accurate ranging estimation. This paper proposes an LDACS ranging method based on improved super-resolution delay estimation, aiming to achieve better performance in the presence of noise. The functionality of the algorithm is preliminary verified through lab and outdoor tests, reaching an ideal performance. This study contributes to improve the accuracy of LDACS ranging. It helps to promote the development of LDACS positioning and navigation functionality.