AT&T and Ericsson test drone detection over 5G near AT&T Stadium

AT&T (NYSE: T) and Ericsson conducted a drone detection demonstration using advanced network sensing over a 5G network outside AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, according to a press release issued July 10, 2026.

The demonstration used Ericsson's Massive MIMO radios deployed across multiple existing cellular tower sites in a multi-static sensing configuration. The system combined sensing-enabled radio transmissions with signal processing and AI-based algorithms to detect, locate, and track drones in real time.

During the test, multiple drones flying at altitudes between 300 and 400 feet were detected, localized, and continuously tracked. The system generated real-time target metrics including location, velocity, and elevation. The demonstration took place in authorized airspace during a major global sporting event held at the venue.

The companies said the technology uses existing network infrastructure rather than standalone sensing equipment, and that the approach could support drone awareness, venue security, and logistics coordination at large public events.

"Integrated sensing is an important part of the road to 6G, and this work helps show how we can start bringing that future to life right now," said Yigal Elbaz, SVP and Network CTO at AT&T.

Dyon Agnew, SVP and Head of Customer Unit AT&T at Ericsson Americas, said the demonstration reflects "a product roadmap in action: using advanced 5G capabilities today to explore how sensing and connectivity can work together."

AT&T and Ericsson said they plan to continue developing Integrated Sensing and Communication capabilities, with future demonstrations targeted in part around the 2028 Los Angeles global sporting event.

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