Using base stations for mobile communication as a radar system for detection of drones

Purpose and goal:

The objective of the project is to use existing 4G/5G base stations in Sweden as a radar system for the detection and tracking of drones. Sweden´s existing base of closely spaced base stations constitutes a particularly interesting and robust civilian and military possibility for this. Expected results and effects:

The expected result is that the existing base of already deployed base stations, with large surface coverage, could form an important and robust subsystem in a larger system for the detection of drones under conditions of peace, gray zone or war. Approach and implementation:

The project intends to combine Ericsson´s knowledge in networks for telecommunications with Saab´s world-leading knowledge in the field of radar. Ericsson and Saab have already started a collaboration with the project goal described above. The maturity level of the collaborative project is today 2-3 on the nine-point TRL scale.

The goal of the project is to achieve TRL 6 by developing the necessary software, implementing it in Ericsson´s test network and carrying out tests and trials outdoors.