Military organizations are exploring whether commercial 5G networks can be reused for battlefield sensing, particularly to detect and track drones. Recent trials in Latvia and the United States tested different approaches using existing telecommunications infrastructure.

NATO investigated the concept during its Digital Backbone Experimentation exercise, known as DiBaX 2026, held in Latvia from October 19 to 30. The exercise examined whether 5G towers could passively detect and track airborne objects, including drones. The trials involved the United States, Canada, Germany, Finland, Lithuania and other allies, with three methods of using commercial 5G tested. Some experiments were unsuccessful, but NATO said the results could help identify lessons for future development.

The counter-drone system tested by NATO was reportedly designed with assistance from artificial-intelligence agents. Admiral Pierre Vandier, NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, said AI was used to connect systems that had not originally been designed to communicate with one another. He cited the integration of a Maven system with a national system as an example that was resolved within hours using agentic AI.

Using existing cellular networks could give large-scale telecommunications infrastructure an additional national-security role. NATO also sees multiple networks and satellites as a potential way to improve resilience if individual systems are disrupted. However, the expanded military value of 5G masts could also make them more attractive targets.

Separately, AT&T and Ericsson demonstrated drone detection using advanced network sensing over 5G near AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The system detected and located multiple drones before tracking their movements. During the demonstration, the aircraft flew at altitudes between 300 and 400 feet within the network’s coverage area.

The companies presented the technology as supporting low-altitude threat detection and tracking around major venues, public spaces and other complex environments. The demonstration was also described as an early example of capabilities associated with 6G, which is expected to combine communications and sensing.

Together, the trials indicate how commercial 5G networks could support drone monitoring for defense and security applications, potentially requiring less additional infrastructure than dedicated sensing systems.

Sources: Tom's Hardware.