Ericsson has expanded trials of Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) technology to Finland, demonstrating how mobile network-based sensing could help authorities detect small, low-altitude drones around critical infrastructure.
The Swedish technology vendor conducted live demonstrations with state-owned ICT company Erillisverkot at a key cargo harbour in Helsinki, testing the potential for ISAC to provide sensing capabilities at important ports of entry.
The trial focused on the challenge of detecting small drones, which Ericsson said can be difficult to identify across large areas. By collecting sensing information simultaneously from several network points, the technology can provide a broader view of activity across a harbour.
Ericsson said the capability could allow authorities to receive earlier warnings of potential threats, improving decision-making and response times.
The company envisages ISAC working alongside existing sensors and connecting directly to authorities’ command and control systems.
Patrik Wikberg, head of Solution Area Public Safety at Ericsson, said access to reliable information was increasingly important to protecting critical infrastructure.
He said the demonstration with Erillisverkot could give Finnish authorities insight into how mobile network-based sensing could complement existing capabilities.
Ismo Parviainen, chief specialist and CDO at Finland’s Ministry of the Interior and an Erillisverkot board member, said authorities needed “clear and continuous situational awareness of the low-altitude airspace”.
He highlighted the use of existing mobile infrastructure as a key advantage of ISAC, noting that it could make use of “investments that are already in place”.
ISAC uses existing network infrastructure
Ericsson said ISAC works by analysing reflections from radio frequency signals to create spatial awareness without requiring separate sensors.
The vendor sees the technology as a potential core element of future 6G networks, although its current trials are being conducted on 5G infrastructure.
The Finnish demonstration follows a separate drone detection test Ericsson conducted with AT&T earlier this year.
Drones have also featured in a US government ISAC initiative involving Cohere Technologies.
