Physical Layer Security Scheme Based on Polarization Modulation and WFRFT Processing for Dual-polarized Satellite Systems

A novel scheme based on polarization modulation and the weighted fractional Fourier transform (PM-WFRFT) is proposed in this paper to enhance the physical layer security of dual-polarized satellite systems. This scheme utilizes the amplitude and phase of the carrier as information-bearing parameters to transmit the normal signal and conceals the confidential information in the carrier’s polarization state (PS). After being processed by WFRFT, the characteristics of the transmit signal (including amplitude, phase and polarization state) vary randomly and in nearly Gaussian distribution. This makes the signal very difficult for an eavesdropper to recognize or capture. The WFRFT parameter is also encrypted by a pseudo-random sequence and updated in real time, which enhances its anti-interception performance. Furthermore, to prevent the polarization-based impairment to PM-WFRFT caused by depolarization in the wireless channel, two components of the polarized signal are transmitted respectively in two symbol periods; this prevents any mutual interference between the two orthogonally polarized components. Demodulation performance in the system was also assessed, then the proposed scheme was validated with a simulated dual-polarized satellite system.