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Lockheed Martin, Verizon Demo AI Counter UAS Tech

August 12, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Lockheed Martin and Verizon demonstrate AI-powered counter-UAS technology.
System uses existing 5G network infrastructure for drone detection.
NetSense combines AI, RF sensing, and 5G infrastructure for airspace awareness.
Pilot deployments planned for 2026 and 2027.

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Strategic Implications

This demonstration may indicate a shift towards leveraging commercial 5G infrastructure for public airspace protection, suggesting a potential new market for AI-powered counter-UAS solutions. The collaboration between Lockheed Martin and Verizon could signal a growing trend of partnerships between defense contractors and telecommunications companies, which may lead to more efficient and scalable drone detection systems.

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What Happened

Partners Leverage 5G Networks For Public Airspace Protection

Lockheed Martin and Verizon have successfully demonstrated an AI-powered counter-UAS technology designed to detect, track, and monitor unmanned aircraft systems using existing 5G network infrastructure. The system, called NetSense, combines artificial intelligence, radio frequency sensing, and 5G infrastructure to identify and track drones. According to Lockheed Martin, the technology is intended to support public safety, critical infrastructure protection, and government airspace monitoring without requiring changes to existing cellular radio deployments. This development was reported by UASweekly.com.

Source | Originally Published: August 12, 2026

Companies Mentioned