Aerial platforms are expected to deliver enhanced and seamless connectivity in the fifth generation (5G) wireless networks and beyond (B5G). Alternatively, reconfigurable smart surfaces (RSS), which smartly exploit/recycle signal reflections in the environment, are increasingly being recognized as a new wireless communication paradigm to improve communication links. In fact, their reduced cost, low power use, light weight, and flexible deployment make them an attractive candidate for integration with 5G/B5G technologies. In this article, we discuss comprehensive approaches to the integration of RSS in aerial platforms. First, we present a review of RSS technology, its operations, and types of communication. Next, we describe how RSS can be used in aerial platforms, and we propose a control architecture workflow. Then several potential use cases are presented and discussed. Finally, associated research challenges are identified.

中文翻译：

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具有可重配置5G及更高版本智能表面的空中平台

空中平台有望在第五代（5G）和以后的无线网络（B5G）中提供增强的无缝连接。可替代地，在环境中智能地利用/回收信号反射的可重新配置的智能表面（RSS）被越来越多地视为改善通信链路的一种新的无线通信范例。实际上，它们的低成本，低功耗，轻巧和灵活的部署使其成为与5G / B5G技术集成的有吸引力的候选者。在本文中，我们讨论了在空中平台中集成RSS的综合方法。首先，我们介绍一下RSS技术，其操作和通信类型。接下来，我们描述如何在空中平台上使用RSS，并提出控制体系结构工作流程。然后提出并讨论了一些潜在的用例。最后，确定相关的研究挑战。