Topic Editors

Electronics Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Republic of Korea
Dr. Hojun Lee
Information and Communication Engineering, Hoseo University, Asan 31499, Republic of Korea
Dr. Yongcheol Kim
Department of AI and Software, College of AI, Inje University, Gimhae 50834, Republic of Korea

Advances in Underwater Signal Processing and Communication: Challenges, Innovations, and Applications

Abstract submission deadline
31 December 2025
Manuscript submission deadline
31 March 2026
Viewed by
91

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

Underwater signal processing and communication technologies play a crucial role in a wide range of applications, including marine exploration, environmental monitoring, underwater resource mapping, disaster response, and defense operations. The complex and dynamic nature of the underwater environment presents significant challenges, such as signal attenuation, multipath propagation, and the absence of GPS, necessitating advanced signal processing techniques and robust communication systems.

Key challenges and research directions in this field include the following:

  • Accurate Positioning and Navigation: In GPS-denied underwater environments, technologies such as acoustic localization, inertial navigation systems (INSs), simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), and SONAR-based navigation are essential for precise underwater positioning. 
  • Reliable Communication: Underwater communication relies on acoustic, optical, and electromagnetic methods, each with its own trade-offs. Innovations in modulation techniques, adaptive transmission, and hybrid communication strategies are critical for improving data transmission reliability. 
  • Real-Time Data Processing: Autonomous underwater systems, including unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and sensor networks, require the real-time processing of sensor data for adaptive decision making, target recognition, and environmental modeling. 
  • Noise Reduction and Signal Enhancement: Underwater environments introduce challenges such as multipath interference, Doppler effects, and background noise. Advanced filtering, beamforming, and machine learning-based noise reduction techniques are vital for improving signal clarity. 
  • Energy-Efficient Systems: Long-duration underwater operations demand energy-efficient signal processing and communication methods to maximize operational lifetime, particularly for deep-sea exploration and long-term environmental monitoring. 
  • SONAR-Based Sensing and Imaging: SONAR technologies, including multibeam SONAR and synthetic aperture SONAR (SAS), are widely used for underwater mapping, object detection, and marine habitat assessment. Advanced signal processing techniques enhance SONAR resolution, reduce interference, and improve target classification. 
  • AI and Machine Learning for Underwater Systems: The integration of AI into underwater signal processing enables intelligent decision making, anomaly detection, and predictive maintenance for various applications, from autonomous navigation to underwater surveillance.

This topic aims to explore cutting-edge innovations in underwater signal processing and communication, bringing together experts from diverse fields such as signal processing, telecommunications, robotics, oceanography, and environmental science. By addressing these challenges, advancements in this field will contribute to improved underwater exploration, scientific research, industrial applications, and defense capabilities.

Prof. Dr. Jaehak Chung
Dr. Hojun Lee
Dr. Yongcheol Kim
Topic Editors

Keywords

  • underwater signal processing
  • acoustic communication
  • noise reduction and signal enhancement
  • optical and electromagnetic communication
  • GPS-denied localization
  • AI and machine learning for underwater systems
  • energy-efficient communication systems
  • SONAR sensing and imaging
  • underwater environmental monitoring
  • marine resource exploration

Participating Journals

Journal Name Impact Factor CiteScore Launched Year First Decision (median) APC
Applied Sciences
applsci
2.5 5.3 2011 18.4 Days CHF 2400 Submit
Electronics
electronics
2.6 5.3 2012 16.4 Days CHF 2400 Submit
Journal of Marine Science and Engineering
jmse
2.7 4.4 2013 16.4 Days CHF 2600 Submit
Signals
signals
- 3.2 2020 28.3 Days CHF 1000 Submit
Telecom
telecom
2.1 4.8 2020 20.5 Days CHF 1200 Submit
Sensors
sensors
3.4 7.3 2001 18.6 Days CHF 2600 Submit

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