Jakarta, INTI - Indonesia has begun laying the groundwork for the development of 6G technology, with one of the key initiatives centered on antenna research conducted by scientists at the Telecommunications Research Center (PRT) of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN).
Unlike previous generations of mobile communications, 6G development is expected to go beyond faster network speeds and require significant innovation in device architecture, particularly in antenna design, which remains a critical component of wireless communication systems.
Yohanes Galih Adhiyoga, a researcher at PRT BRIN, explained that one of the most widely studied approaches involves multilayer microstrip antennas. This technology is considered capable of improving signal gain and controlling radiation patterns more effectively, although it presents challenges in integration with modern electronic devices.
“This research is also being developed at PRT BRIN. One of our primary focuses is the advancement of microstrip antennas, both single-layer and multilayer designs, to meet the communication demands of future generations,” Yohanes said.
Antennas Become Part of Complex 6G System Engineering
According to Yohanes, antennas in next-generation communication systems can no longer be treated as standalone components. Their design must account for interactions with various active elements, including integrated circuits (ICs), transistors, filters, and feeding networks within a single device.
As a result, antenna development has evolved into a more complex systems engineering challenge rather than simply designing structures for signal radiation.
Yohanes emphasized that 6G research represents a long-term effort that must begin well before commercial deployment, even as 5G technology continues to expand globally.
“Although 5G is still being developed, research cannot stop there. We need to prepare for the next generation of technology,” he explained.
“When 6G is eventually implemented, it should deliver meaningful improvements in speed, latency, and overall performance rather than simply introducing a new label,” he added.
Balancing Performance and Integration Challenges
Within next-generation communication systems, antennas remain a vital component because they serve as the primary gateway for transmitting and receiving signals.
“Our antenna research group focuses on only one part of the 6G ecosystem, the antenna as a passive component. However, antennas remain extremely important because they are the main entry and exit point for signals,” Yohanes noted.
BRIN’s ongoing 6G antenna research covers a range of microstrip antenna configurations, including both single-layer and multilayer designs. Each design offers different advantages depending on the performance objectives.
Some antennas are engineered to achieve higher gain and optimized radiation patterns, while others prioritize broader bandwidth. These varying characteristics highlight the trade-offs involved in antenna design, requiring researchers to select structures that best fit specific applications.
Yohanes identified integration with active electronic components as one of the greatest challenges in current antenna development. The complexity continues to grow as modern devices such as smartphones incorporate multiple communication functions within a single system.
Consequently, antennas must be capable of operating efficiently without interfering with, or being affected by, other components inside the device.
Building Talent for the 6G Era
Nasrullah Armi, Head of PRT BRIN, believes the telecommunications sector will continue to expand rapidly and will require a workforce prepared for future technologies.
“Opportunities in this field remain extensive. Students should begin identifying their areas of interest early because 6G research will continue to grow and require a significant amount of talent,” Nasrullah said.
Conclusion
Indonesia is taking early steps toward the 6G era through advanced antenna research at BRIN. By focusing on next-generation antenna technologies and developing skilled talent, the country aims to strengthen its readiness for future communication networks that promise higher performance, lower latency, and more sophisticated connectivity.
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