Ericsson has unveiled its Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) System, introducing a new dimension to mobile networks by enabling them to detect and track drones, including those not connected to cellular networks. The innovation could transform existing telecom infrastructure into an additional layer of national security and public safety.
With low-cost drones increasingly deployed for surveillance, smuggling, sabotage and military operations, detecting small, fast-moving aerial objects has become a critical challenge. Traditional radar systems remain essential, but achieving comprehensive low-altitude coverage requires substantial infrastructure investments.
Ericsson's ISAC technology leverages existing 5G towers, radio signals, edge computing and artificial intelligence to identify objects through reflected wireless signals. Its multi-static architecture enables multiple geographically distributed sites to observe targets simultaneously, improving positioning accuracy, tracking continuity and detection reliability.
Validated trials demonstrated the system's ability to detect micro drones at kilometre-scale distances with precise three-dimensional positioning. However, performance varies with terrain, drone characteristics, network configuration and environmental conditions. Ericsson emphasises that ISAC complements conventional radar and acoustic detection rather than replacing established security infrastructure.
Live demonstrations with AT&T in Texas, Erillisverkot in Finland, and Play and Asseco in Poland showcased practical applications. These trials highlighted opportunities to strengthen stadium security, monitor strategic infrastructure and enhance counter-drone operations through coordinated sensing networks.
Freddie Södergren, Global Head of Mission Critical Networks and Defense, Ericsson, says: “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.”
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Joe Madden, Principal Analyst at Mobile Experts, says: “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, says: “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.”
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Shawn Hakl, SVP & Head of Product, AT&T Business, says: “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, says: “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.”
Commercial pilots are expected in 2027, followed by broader deployments from 2028, with integrated communication capabilities evolving towards 6G. For India, the technology presents opportunities to strengthen critical infrastructure protection and low-altitude airspace awareness. However, spectrum coordination, cybersecurity, privacy safeguards and regulatory oversight will be essential for responsible adoption.
