KEYNOTE: Advancements in Phased Arrays for Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Networks

Phased array systems have evolved from their radar origins into a foundational technology for modern wireless communication. They enable electronically steerable, high-gain beams. Phased arrays power millimeter-wave (mmWave) 5G, fixed wireless access, and non-terrestrial networks (NTN) such as Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations — delivering multi-gigabit data rates, ultra-low latency, and global coverage across terrestrial and airborne platforms. Integrated sensing and communications (ISAC) further expands the role of phase arrays, enabling simultaneous high-speed data transmission and precision sensing within a unified architecture. This keynote will examine recent advancements that are redefining phased array design and deployment. Key innovations include energy-efficient architectures, advanced packaging technologies such as antenna-in-package (AiP), and calibration schemes that meet stringent performance requirements, such as linear output power for 5G transceivers and gain-to-noise-temperature ratio (G/T) for satellite payloads. Additionally, hybrid beamforming techniques and AI-driven optimization algorithms are unlocking dynamic beam synthesis and scalability. While these developments mark significant progress, ongoing research continues to focus on improving system efficiency, implementing robust thermal management, achieving array linearization under high-power operation, and mitigating active load modulation effects. Looking ahead, phased arrays are poised to become a cornerstone of 6G and beyond, enabling ubiquitous connectivity and integrated sensing across heterogeneous networks.