Blockchain Interoperability in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Networks: State-of-the-Art and Open Issues

The breakthrough of blockchain technology has facilitated the emergence and deployment of a wide range of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) networks-based applications. Yet, the full utilization of these applications is still limited due to the fact that each application is operating on an isolated blockchain. Thus, it is inevitable to orchestrate these blockchain fragments by introducing a cross-blockchain platform that governs the inter-communication and transfer of assets in the UAV networks context. In this paper, we survey the literature on the state-of-the-art cross blockchain frameworks to highlight the latest advances in the field. We also provide an up-to-date review of blockchain-based UAV networks applications. Based on the outcomes of our survey, we introduce a spectrum of scenarios related to UAV networks that may leverage the potentials of the currently available cross-blockchain solutions. Finally, we identify open issues and potential challenges associated with the application of a cross-blockchain scheme for UAV networks that will hopefully guide future research directions.

Automated summary

The paper discusses the utilization of blockchain technology in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) networks-based applications. It highlights the limitations of isolated blockchains for each application and proposes the need for a cross-blockchain platform. The paper surveys the existing cross-blockchain frameworks and reviews the latest advances in blockchain-based UAV networks applications. It introduces potential scenarios in UAV networks that can leverage the currently available cross-blockchain solutions. The paper also identifies open issues and potential challenges associated with implementing a cross-blockchain scheme for UAV networks to guide future research directions.