EU seeks proposals to detect drones through mobile networks

The European Commission announced a call on November 12 for information about testing and deploying drone detection using cellular networks. It is seeking proposals involving member states and private partners, including telecoms companies and operators of critical infrastructure.

The call covers three possible strands: identifying connected drones through networks with artificial intelligence, sensing drones that are not connected, and linking detection to command systems and counter-drone equipment. The Commission says Ukrainian partners may join consortia, including cross-border projects.

The exercise follows the EU’s drone security action plan and runs until February 28, 2027. It gathers potential projects and capabilities; the Commission may consider a separate funding call after reviewing responses.