EU seeks proposals for drone detection using mobile networks

The European Commission, the EU's executive body, published a call for expressions of interest on 11 November inviting Member States and industry partners to submit proposals for drone detection systems built on existing telecommunications infrastructure. The aim is to detect, track and identify both connected and non-connected drones, for civilian security and military defence. The call is part of the EU Action Plan on Drone and Counter Drone Security and could strengthen Europe's ability to spot potentially hostile drones, particularly near airports, critical infrastructure, borders, transport hubs and maritime facilities.

Three areas

The first area uses artificial intelligence to flag suspicious drone activity through current networks. Drones connected to public or private mobile networks can be identified by analysing network data such as SIM identities, transmission characteristics and unusual communication patterns. AI systems could also spot anomalous behaviour, for example unusual speeds or unexpected flight paths.

The second area is more ambitious: cellular sensing to detect drones that are not connected to mobile networks. The technology, called Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC), turns telecom infrastructure into a distributed radar system. Base stations emit radio waves, and by analysing how these are reflected and disturbed, the network can potentially determine the position and movement of flying objects, including drones and balloons.

The third area concerns integrating detection and tracking into broader command-and-control systems. Cellular sensor data would be combined with conventional radar, radio frequency detection and electro-optical sensors, helping authorities tell legitimate drone flights from threats. The Commission also wants to examine links to counter-drone effectors.

Existing work

The idea is not entirely new. German research institute ipoque, part of Rohde & Schwarz, and Hamburg's Helmut Schmidt University have studied AI analysis of mobile network data. In France, operator Orange has launched Drone Guardian, which draws on about 19,700 cell towers run by TOTEM, its infrastructure subsidiary.

Participation and deadlines

Member States may submit proposals with private partners, including telecom equipment suppliers, network operators and critical infrastructure operators. National and cross-border projects are welcome, and Ukraine may join a consortium. The call is open until 28 February 2027, with proposals limited to 15 pages. Based on the responses, the Commission will consider a separate funding call for pilot projects. Whether 5G networks can deliver sufficiently reliable detection under operational conditions remains to be demonstrated.