Lockheed Martin Uses 5G Networks to Detect and Track Drones Without New Infrastructure

5G Networks Transform Into Drone Detection Systems

Lockheed Martin demonstrated a breakthrough approach to drone detection that converts existing 5G networks into airspace monitoring tools. The NetSense Airspace Awareness-as-a-Service system, tested near Miami in July, showed how commercial wireless infrastructure can detect and track drones without requiring dedicated sensors or specialized hardware.1

1

The demonstration involved collaboration with Verizon, NVIDIA, Keysight Technologies, ODC, and Astris AI, proving that unmanned aircraft systems detection can leverage infrastructure already deployed across cities.2

2

How AI-Powered Drone Detection Works

The system analyzes radio-frequency disturbances around cellular networks to identify drone activity and maintain tracking as aircraft move through airspace. NetSense combines several commercial technologies: Verizon provided the 5G network spectrum, ODC supplied AI-native radio software, and NVIDIA's AI Aerial platform performed real time signal analysis of RF signals.1

1

Keysight Technologies contributed RF simulation technology, while Lockheed Martin's systems processed the data to detect and track drones. During the Miami demonstration in a high-traffic urban area, NetSense detected a drone, alerted operators, and maintained track custody throughout the flight.2

2

NVIDIA executive Ronnie Vasishta explained that the technology brings AI-powered sensing closer to the network edge, enabling rapid analysis of RF disturbances and faster alerts.1

1

The system requires no changes to existing cellular radio deployments, making large-scale implementation feasible for infrastructure operators without recapitalization of cellular infrastructure.

Critical Infrastructure and Airspace Security Applications

The NetSense system addresses growing airspace awareness needs as drones become cheaper and more accessible. Airports, hospitals, power plants, stadiums, and government facilities can gain another layer of airspace security through this technology.1

1

Critical infrastructure operators face increasing drone activity around sensitive sites, making counter-drone methods essential for protection. City, state, and federal government customers can gain proactive monitoring and alerts, with applications spanning large-scale events, utilities, schools, and everyday public spaces.2

2

Verizon's Anil Guntupali noted that existing 5G signals provide useful sensing data when paired with intelligent software, transforming communications networks into security tools without replacing core infrastructure.1

1

This approach proves more scalable than traditional counter-drone systems requiring dedicated sensors.

Open Architecture Enables Future Expansion

The system's open architecture design allows additional sensors and interceptors to connect with existing platforms without requiring entirely new hardware.2

2

Engineers can expand capabilities as technologies emerge, with continuous enhancements possible including improved data interpretation and target classification. Lockheed Martin confirmed the system complements future 6G Integrated Sensing and Communication networks, currently working with 5G spectrum while providing a path toward broader cellular integration.1

1

The competitive commercial market driving the solution can reduce costs and foster innovation compared to custom-built systems. NetSense's scalability ranges from protecting a single critical site to supporting mobile command and control systems for larger operations.2

2

Deployment Timeline and Subscription-Based Model

Lockheed Martin plans to offer NetSense through a subscription-based model that interfaces with customers' existing security operations rather than requiring separate command structures.1

1

Pilot deployments are scheduled for the second half of 2026 and early 2027, with commercial general availability planned for 2027. Initial customers will include organizations with urgent airspace security requirements, with early deployments limited to select customers needing immediate capability.2

2

The technology demonstrates how ordinary communications infrastructure can gain a secondary security role, making drone awareness more accessible without rebuilding America's wireless infrastructure. As drone proliferation continues, the ability to monitor low-altitude airspace using existing networks could become standard practice for protecting populated areas and sensitive locations.