Existing 5G networks become drone hunters with new real-time tracking technology

The US is testing a new way to spot drones without building a separate detection network. A new system uses existing 5G infrastructure to detect, track, and monitor unmanned aircraft. Lockheed Martin and its partners demonstrated the technology near Miami in July. The test showed how commercial wireless infrastructure could support drone detection across busy American environments. The system, called NetSense Airspace Awareness-as-a-Service, analyzes radio-frequency disturbances around cellular networks. It can then identify drone activity and maintain a track as the aircraft moves. The approach could give airports, hospitals, power plants, stadiums and government facilities another layer of airspace protection. It could also help agencies monitor drone activity around sensitive locations. 5G becomes drone sensor NetSense combines several commercial technologies to turn cellular signals into useful sensing data. Verizon provided the 5G network spectrum used during the demonstration. ODC supplied AI-native radio access network software for the test. NVIDIA’s AI Aerial platform analyzed radio-frequency signals in real time. Keysight Technologies also contributed its RF simulation technology. Lockheed Martin’s systems then processed the resulting data to identify and track the drone. NVIDIA executive Ronnie Vasishta said the technology brings AI-powered sensing closer to the network edge. That allows RF disturbances to receive rapid analysis and supports faster alerts. The system does not require changes to existing cellular radio deployments. That detail could make large-scale deployment easier for infrastructure operators. Engineers can also expand the system as new technologies emerge. Its open architecture allows additional sensors and interceptors to connect with existing systems. Tracking drones in real time During the Miami demonstration, NetSense detected a drone and alerted operators to its presence. The system then maintained track custody as the aircraft continued its flight. That capability matters as drones become cheaper and easier to acquire. A growing number of commercial and consumer drones now operate near populated areas. Traditional counter-drone systems can require dedicated sensors and specialized hardware. NetSense takes a different engineering route by using infrastructure already deployed across cities. Lockheed Martin says its approach can also complement future 6G sensing networks. The system currently works with 5G spectrum while providing a path toward broader cellular integration. Verizon’s Anil Guntupali said existing 5G signals can provide useful sensing data when paired with intelligent software. That concept could turn communications networks into security tools without replacing their core infrastructure. The company plans to offer NetSense through a subscription model. The service will connect with customers’ existing security operations rather than require an entirely separate command structure. Commercial counter-drone systems Pilot deployments are planned for the second half of 2026 and early 2027. Lockheed Martin expects broader commercial availability in 2027. Initial customers will include organizations with urgent airspace security requirements. Critical infrastructure operators could become major users as drone activity increases around sensitive sites. The technology could eventually give US cities another tool for monitoring low-altitude airspace. More importantly, it shows how ordinary communications infrastructure could gain a second role.A cellular network built to connect phones could also help security teams understand what is flying nearby. That shift could make drone awareness more scalable without rebuilding America’s existing wireless infrastructure.Get the latest in engineering, tech, space & science - delivered daily to your inbox.Aamir is a seasoned tech journalist with experience at Exhibit Magazine, Republic World, and PR Newswire. With a deep love for all things tech and science, he has spent years decoding the latest innovations and exploring how they shape industries, lifestyles, and the future of humanity.