Ericsson Leverages Mobile Networks for Low-Altitude Drone Detection
New sensing technology utilizes existing cellular infrastructure to track unauthorized aerial vehicles.
1Network-Based Drone Tracking
Ericsson is developing an Integrated Sensing and Communication system that repurposes cellular infrastructure for drone surveillance. By analyzing radio signals that bounce off flying objects, the technology identifies movements without needing dedicated radar equipment. This approach aims to monitor low-altitude airspace where traditional radar systems often struggle to maintain consistent coverage.
2Technical Infrastructure Requirements
The system is not a plug-and-play software update for all existing networks. It requires specialized radio equipment, significant computing resources, and Massive MIMO antennas to process complex signal reflections. These antennas utilize multiple transmission and reception elements to accurately estimate an object's position by comparing data collected from several different cellular sites.
3Successful Field Testing
Initial trials have already demonstrated the system's viability in real-world environments. AT&T conducted tests in Arlington, Texas, while Finland’s Erillisverkot performed similar evaluations. Both organizations successfully identified multiple drones and tracked their flight paths using the network-based sensing approach, confirming the technology can function effectively outside of strictly controlled laboratory settings.
4Addressing Security Disruptions
The development comes as unauthorized drone flights increasingly disrupt critical infrastructure, including airports and military installations. Recent incidents, such as those at Jersey Airport, have highlighted the urgent need for better detection methods. Authorities are currently exploring new ways to secure sensitive locations against unidentified aircraft that bypass traditional monitoring systems.
5Complementing Existing Radar
Ericsson emphasizes that this technology is designed to complement, not replace, established radar installations. While cellular networks provide excellent coverage at low elevations, the company must still determine how performance holds up in complex environments. Buildings, difficult terrain, and competing radio signals remain variables that could complicate detection accuracy in urban areas.
6Future Deployment Timeline
Ericsson plans to initiate limited commercial trials in 2027 to further refine the system's capabilities. Following these initial tests, the company intends to expand availability to additional customers throughout 2028. This phased rollout will allow for rigorous assessment of the technology's reliability before it becomes a standard feature in modern telecommunications networks.
7Broader Sensing Potential
Beyond drone security, the sensing technology holds promise for monitoring other moving objects. Potential applications include tracking shipping movements, managing vehicle traffic, and observing changing weather conditions around critical infrastructure. These secondary uses could provide telecommunications operators with additional value propositions for their existing cellular assets beyond traditional voice and data services.
8The Role of 6G
Industry experts suggest that future network generations will significantly enhance these sensing capabilities. The new spectrum expected with 6G will facilitate deployment on wider channels, which is projected to improve detection accuracy. By integrating sensing into the core of future networks, providers can offer enhanced security solutions while maintaining their primary connectivity functions.