Ericsson Launches ISAC System for AI-Powered Drone Detection Using 5G Networks
Unlike conventional mobile communication systems, Ericsson ISAC can detect objects without requiring them to connect to the network. Consequently, defence organisations, public safety agencies and critical infrastructure operators can gain greater awareness of low-altitude airspace activity.
The company plans a phased commercial rollout, beginning with small-scale sensing-only pilots involving selected customers in 2027. Subsequently, Ericsson expects broader deployments from 2028, while integrated communication capabilities will evolve alongside future 6G technology.
The development addresses growing security concerns surrounding small, inexpensive drones. Increasingly, such aircraft support unlawful surveillance, organised crime, sabotage and military operations.
However, their compact size and low-altitude flight patterns make conventional detection challenging. Although dedicated radar and sensing equipment remain essential, deploying these systems across large geographical areas requires substantial infrastructure investment.
Therefore, Ericsson aims to complement existing detection technologies by introducing sensing capabilities into mobile networks.
Ericsson ISAC Uses 5G, AI and Edge Computing for Drone Detection
The Ericsson ISAC System combines sensing-capable 5G radios, artificial intelligence, edge computing and advanced signal processing.
Instead of relying on direct communication with drones, the system analyses radio signals reflected by objects in the surrounding environment. Consequently, it can identify and track aircraft that operate independently of the mobile network.
Furthermore, Ericsson uses a multi-static sensing architecture, distributing signal transmission and reception across geographically separated network sites.
This approach allows multiple mobile sites to observe the same object from different angles. As a result, the system improves positioning accuracy, detection confidence, tracking continuity and coverage resilience.
The technology also uses existing mobile infrastructure, including towers, spectrum and backhaul connections. Therefore, operators can potentially expand surveillance coverage without constructing entirely new sensing networks.
Additionally, AI-based classification helps distinguish detected objects and supports more detailed tracking information.
The system can securely share information with authorised external platforms through standardised interfaces. These include security monitoring systems and command-and-control applications.
Moreover, combining mobile-network sensing with radar, acoustic detectors and other technologies can provide a more comprehensive operational picture.
In validated testing, Ericsson successfully detected and tracked micro drones at kilometre-scale distances with precise three-dimensional positioning.
Testing also demonstrated consistent tracking across different flight patterns, operating conditions and system configurations.
Nevertheless, actual performance depends on terrain, environmental conditions, sensing geometry, target characteristics and network configuration.
Live 5G Trials Demonstrate Drone Tracking Across Multiple Countries
Ericsson has demonstrated its ISAC technology through several live 5G network trials involving telecommunications and technology partners.
In Arlington, Texas, Ericsson collaborated with AT&T to demonstrate drone detection and tracking capabilities. During the trial, sensing dashboards displayed drone activity, including the locations and movements of multiple aircraft.
The demonstration highlighted how existing wireless infrastructure could support security monitoring around major venues and critical facilities.
Meanwhile, a separate trial with Erillisverkot in Helsinki demonstrated coordinated drone detection across multiple 5G sites.
The Finnish demonstration also explored how mobile-network sensing could support public safety and counter-unmanned aircraft system operations. Furthermore, it highlighted opportunities to extend coverage alongside conventional sensing equipment.
In Poland, Ericsson partnered with Asseco and Play to demonstrate another approach to drone detection.
The demonstration combined Ericsson’s ISAC technology, Play’s mobile network and Asseco’s PUSZCZYK acoustic detection system.
Together, these technologies supported more accurate detection and positioning of low-flying drones. Additionally, the trial demonstrated how different sensing technologies could complement one another.
These demonstrations highlight the potential of mobile networks to support wider-area drone monitoring using existing telecommunications infrastructure.
Ericsson ISAC Targets Defence, Infrastructure and Smart City Applications
Ericsson identifies several potential applications for its ISAC System across security, transportation and emerging low-altitude services.
For defence and public safety organisations, the technology could strengthen airspace monitoring around borders, coastlines and strategic assets.
Similarly, critical infrastructure operators could use network-based sensing to improve monitoring around ports, power plants and other essential facilities.
The system could also support transport and industrial operations by providing additional awareness across roads, rail networks and industrial environments.
Furthermore, Ericsson sees opportunities within the emerging low-altitude economy, particularly in drone traffic management and urban airspace monitoring.
Other potential applications include digital twins for smart-city planning and environmental mapping.
By combining sensing information with existing network capabilities, operators could develop new services using infrastructure already in place.
Moreover, integration with traditional sensors and security platforms could help organisations make faster, better-informed operational decisions.
The technology’s phased commercial introduction will initially focus on sensing capabilities. Subsequently, Ericsson plans to expand deployments and develop integrated communication functions as the industry progresses towards 6G.
Overall, the Ericsson ISAC System represents a new application for mobile infrastructure beyond conventional connectivity. Its ability to detect and track drones could strengthen airspace monitoring while supporting future security and smart-city services.
