Ericsson has introduced a system that uses mobile networks to detect and track low-flying drones, including those not connected to the network. The company expects selected small-scale commercial pilots to begin in 2027, with broader deployments following from 2028.
The Integrated Sensing and Communication System uses sensing-capable 5G radios, edge computing, AI and signal processing to track objects across wide areas. It is designed to supplement radar and other sensors by drawing on existing towers, backhaul and spectrum rather than requiring an entirely separate detection network.
“Low-flying drones create a detection coverage gap that no single sensor can effectively address. Ericsson ISAC System enables multiple 5G sites to deliver coordinated wide-area detection and continuous tracking, with data that can be integrated with traditional sensing technologies and operational systems,” said Freddie Södergren, Ericsson’s global head of Mission Critical Networks and Defense.
The system analyzes radio signals reflected by objects, using geographically separated sites to transmit and receive sensing signals. Observing an object from several angles helps improve positioning and maintain its track as it moves through the coverage area, according to Ericsson.
The company said validated tests reliably detected and tracked micro drones at kilometer-scale distances with precise three-dimensional positioning. Performance varies with the target, its flight path, the arrangement of sensing sites, terrain, surrounding conditions and system configuration.
“Detecting small drones across large areas is a growing operational challenge. The possibility of using distributed infrastructure to complement existing sensors could provide an important additional layer of situational awareness,” said Carl Lundqvist, chief architect at Swedish Armed Forces Headquarters.
Initial commercial pilots will provide sensing only, with integrated communications capability to be added as the technology develops toward 6G. Tracking data and AI-based classifications can be shared securely with authorized external systems, including security and command-and-control platforms.
“Ericsson’s ISAC System shows that mobile-network sensing can perform far better than many expect, turning complex radio reflections into remarkably accurate tracking of low-flying, uncooperative objects,” said Joe Madden, principal analyst at Mobile Experts. “By building on an extensive footprint of existing sites, Ericsson has the potential to deliver wide-area drone detection faster and more cost-efficiently than deploying new dedicated sensor infrastructure.”
A trial with AT&T in Arlington, Texas, detected, located and tracked multiple drones, with their movements displayed on sensing dashboards. A separate demonstration with Erillisverkot in Helsinki used multiple 5G sites to detect and track drones, showing how mobile-network sensing could extend coverage alongside traditional sensors.
“The next evolution of connectivity is about networks that don’t just move data but help organizations with insights to better understand and respond to the events in the real world,” said Shawn Hakl, senior vice president and head of product at AT&T Business. “Bringing Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) capabilities into existing 5G infrastructure can provide telemetry and intelligence in situations where it is not possible or desirable to pre-deploy sensors or cameras.”
In Poland, Ericsson, Play and Asseco demonstrated drone detection and positioning by combining mobile-network sensing with Asseco’s PUSZCZYK acoustic detection system. Potential uses include surveillance of borders and coastlines, protection of ports and power plants, and drone traffic management.
“The Ericsson ISAC System shows that dual-use technology can strengthen national security by extending sensing capabilities to help authorities protect people and critical infrastructure,” said Antti Kauppinen, chief technology officer at Erillisverkot. “Together with Ericsson, we are exploring how this capability can be developed responsibly to enhance Finland’s resilience, security, and preparedness.”
