An Intelligent Handover Optimization Framework for Signaling Storm Reduction in 5G–Satellite Integrated Networks

Document Type : Research Article

Author

Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Semnan University, Semnan, Iran.

Abstract

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks have become an essential component of 5G and beyond non-terrestrial networks, as they enable low-latency communication and broad geographic coverage. Nevertheless, the rapid movement of LEO satellites introduces frequent handovers, substantial signaling overhead, and uneven load distribution, all of which can disrupt service continuity, particularly in scenarios involving large populations of user terminals. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a meta-heuristic-based multi-objective group handover optimization framework for LEO satellite systems. Unlike existing approaches, the proposed method jointly optimizes handover decisions at the group level while explicitly considering the RVT of satellites to ensure more stable and efficient connectivity. The simulation results show that the proposed approach effectively decreases unnecessary handovers (30%), alleviates signaling storms (70%), balances satellite loads more efficiently (10%), and prolongs the effective connectivity duration when compared with conventional baseline schemes. These findings validate the proposed framework as a more efficient solution for mobility management in highly dynamic LEO satellite network environments.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Modeling and Simulation in Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Volume 6, Issue 3 - Serial Number 25
In Progree
September 2026
Pages 9-18

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History

  • Receive Date: 21 February 2026
  • Revise Date: 10 April 2026
  • Accept Date: 12 May 2026

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