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Ericsson brings drone detection capabilities to mobile networks

PR Newswire•02/11/2026•03:20 ET
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Key Highlights

  • ➤Ericsson introduces ISAC System for wide-area drone detection over existing 5G infrastructure
  • ➤2027 small-scale sensing-only commercial pilots planned with selected customers
  • ➤Broader-scale sensing deployments expected from 2028
  • ➤Validated tests detected and tracked micro drones at kilometer-scale distances with precise 3D positioning
  • ➤AT&T trial demonstrated detection, location and tracking of multiple drones in Arlington, Texas

Expert Statements

Freddie Södergren, Global Head of Mission Critical Networks and Defense, Ericsson

“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. It also gives operators a pathway to create new services from existing network assets.”

Joe Madden, Principal Analyst at Mobile Experts

“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. 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.”

Carl Lundqvist, Chief Architect, Swedish Armed Forces HQ

“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.”

Shawn Hakl, SVP & Head of Product, AT&T Business

“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. 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. Deploying this technology in a complex environment like a stadium is an important example of how intelligent networks can drive better safety and security outcomes from infrastructure already in place.”

Antti Kauppinen, CTO, Erillisverkot

“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. Together with Ericsson, we are exploring how this capability can be developed responsibly to enhance Finland's resilience, security, and preparedness.”

Ericsson brings drone detection capabilities to mobile networks PR Newswire

* Ericsson introduces new Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) System * The system accurately detects and tracks moving objects such as drones over wide areas, including those not connected to the network * Selected small-scale, sensing-only commercial pilots expected to begin in 2027. Wider scale sensing deployments expected to follow in 2028 STOCKHOLM, Nov. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Existing mobile networks can help close a gap in detecting low-flying, fast-moving objects such as drones across wide areas. Following successful testing of Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) technology over the past months, Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) today introduces the Ericsson ISAC System.

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