Lockheed Martin’s NetSense Transforms 5G Signals into Drone Detection Technology
Lockheed Martin Develops Drone Detection System Using 5G Technology
Lockheed Martin has created a prototype for a drone detection system called NetSense, which utilizes existing 5G networks without the need for dedicated sensors or specialized hardware. The company announced that the prototype was developed in less than a year and successfully demonstrated its capability to detect a small drone that was not connected to any cellular network.
Understanding How NetSense Works
NetSense operates differently from traditional drone detection systems. It does not track a drone’s radio emissions or its controller signal, nor does it rely on the drone’s digital footprint on the network. Instead, it monitors the radio frequency (RF) environment created by 5G networks, which continuously exchange signals between towers and connected devices.
When a drone enters this RF environment, it disrupts the field in a way that can be detected. NetSense employs artificial intelligence to analyze these disturbances and identify when an object, such as a drone, is moving through the airspace. This allows the system to generate alerts even if the drone is not actively transmitting any signals.
Development Process and Timeline
The development of NetSense involved three phases: a concept validation sprint in spring 2025, a lab demonstration in summer, and a field test in fall. By December, the prototype was operational and presented to Lockheed’s executive leadership. Amir Stephenson, director of 5G.MIL programs, noted that the project was intentionally constrained to quickly prove the concept rather than create a perfect system.
The integration with commercial carrier infrastructure was prioritized, ensuring that the system aligns with the interests of 5G carriers as the market for commercial sensing and communications evolves. This partnership is crucial, as the deployment of NetSense relies on cooperation from the operators of the 5G towers it utilizes.
Integration with Lockheed’s STAR.OS
NetSense is integrated into Lockheed’s STAR.UI visualization interface, part of the STAR.OS architecture, which incorporates AI and machine learning capabilities. This integration allows operators to receive actionable information about detected objects in the airspace without needing to interpret raw RF data themselves.
The system is designed to work alongside Lockheed’s Sanctum counter-UAS mission management platform, potentially enabling a seamless response to detected threats.
Future Demonstrations and Implications
Lockheed plans to showcase the next iteration of NetSense at major U.S. events later this year, with speculation pointing towards the FIFA World Cup, which will take place across 16 American cities. This event is expected to feature the largest drone security operation in U.S. history, and if NetSense is demonstrated alongside other systems, it could provide valuable insights into its effectiveness.
The significance of NetSense lies in its ability to utilize existing infrastructure to detect drones that do not emit signals, potentially transforming the economics of drone detection. Traditional systems often require extensive investment in dedicated sensors, limiting their coverage. NetSense, if proven effective, could offer a more economical solution by leveraging already established networks.
The upcoming demonstrations during the World Cup will serve as a critical test for the technology, providing an opportunity to validate its capabilities in a high-stakes environment.
Photo credit: Lockheed Martin