ITU-T Work Programme

[2025-2028] : [SG20] : [Q6/20]

[Declared patent(s)] - [Associated work]

Work item:

Y.4816 (ex Y.bsis-sec)

Subject/title:

Security requirements and capabilities of base station inspection services using unmanned aerial vehicles

Status:

Determined on 2025-09-25 [Issued from previous study period]

Approval process:

TAP

Type of work item:

Recommendation

Version:

New

Equivalent number:

Timing:

2026-Q4 (Medium priority)

Liaison:

ITU-T SG16, SG17; ISO JTC1/SC17, 20/SC16, JTC1/SC6, ICAO

Supporting members:

State Grid Corporation of China; CICT; China Unicom; ZTE; China University of Geosciences; China Mobile

Summary:

The term base stations refers to outdoor stations in smart cities that provide public services, such as power transmission stations, communication base stations, weather monitoring stations and water quality monitoring stations. These base stations are typically located outdoors and are susceptible to damage due to weather changes and material ageing. Therefore, they require timely and periodic inspections. Unlike traditional IoT security, the inspection service for these base stations faces significant and unique security risks. The widespread deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles, especially operating from remote docking stations, creates a broad attack surface and makes the service process vulnerable to attacks. Such vulnerabilities could lead to data theft, including unauthorized access to sensitive images of restricted areas, which poses significant security risks. This Recommendation specifies the security requirements and capabilities for base station inspection service using unmanned aerial vehicles. It aims to enhance information security protection and prevent security incidents such as unauthorized access, malicious intrusions and data tampering, thereby contributing to the overall security of base stations and maintaining the quality of public services in smart cities.

Comment:

Reference(s):

[SG20-TD800-R1/GEN (2025-09)

]