Semantic-Aware Security Protocol Design for 6G Non-Terrestrial Networks: A Formal Verification Approach

Abstract

6G non-terrestrial networks (NTN) enable global connectivity via satellites and high-altitude platforms, supporting applications like autonomous systems and emergency response. However, NTN faces security challenges such as high-latency communication, dynamic topologies, and increased cyber threats. This paper proposes a semantic-aware authentication protocol that leverages real-time environmental semantics to enhance security adaptability. The authors’ approach ensures mutual authentication, secure key exchange, perfect forward secrecy, and data integrity while dynamically responding to network conditions. Using Syverson-Van Oorschot Logic (SVO Logic) and Scyther, the authors formally verify the protocol’s security properties. By integrating semantic security policies, this work advances intelligent, context-aware security frameworks for next-generation 6G NTN architectures. © 2025 IGI Global. All rights reserved.