How is Nokia leveraging embedded wireless technologies to enable safer and more reliable drone operations, particularly in mission-critical environments?
Nokia integrates embedded wireless technologies such as LTE and 5G into its drone solutions to ensure robust, low-latency, and high-reliability communication. These are essential for critical use cases like search and rescue, infrastructure inspection, and public safety. Even in challenging environments, Nokia’s technologies provide secure, interference-resistant links between drones and ground control stations. The use of private wireless networks further enhances operational reliability and data security.
With 5G becoming more widely deployed, what role does it play in enhancing drone communications and real-time control, and how is Nokia positioned in this evolution?
5G introduces ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) and enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), which are vital for real-time drone control and high-resolution video streaming. Nokia, as a leader in 5G infrastructure, is well-positioned to support these advancements with its end-to-end 5G solutions. Its portfolio enables dynamic spectrum sharing, network slicing, and edge computing—all of which are key to scaling drone operations safely and efficiently.
Can you tell us about any specific projects or collaborations Nokia is involved in that demonstrate the integration of drones with private wireless networks?
Nokia has collaborated with various partners, including government bodies and industry leaders, in projects like the PROACTIF consortium. Additionally, Nokia has deployed drones using private LTE/5G networks for public safety usage both in Belgium for a nationwide deployment with Citymesh and with Swisscom Broadcast in Switzerland, enabling real-time video analytics and coordination during emergencies. Another notable example is the use of drones in smart ports and logistics hubs where Nokia’s private wireless solutions provide the backbone for autonomous aerial inspections and data transmission.
What are the key challenges in ensuring secure and scalable drone connectivity, and how is Nokia addressing these through embedded solutions?
Challenges include interference, data security, signal loss, and managing multiple drones in dense environments. Nokia addresses these with embedded SIMs, robust encryption protocols, and private wireless networks that provide dedicated bandwidth and control. Its edge computing platforms also enable localized decision-making, reducing latency and network congestion while enhancing scalability and resilience.
How do you see the role of AI and edge computing evolving in embedded wireless solutions for autonomous drones?
AI and edge computing are becoming central to drone autonomy. They enable real-time decision-making, such as object recognition, obstacle avoidance, and adaptive flight path optimization. Nokia incorporates edge intelligence into its solutions to support these capabilities close to the drone, minimizing reliance on cloud connectivity. This not only reduces latency but also ensures more secure and efficient drone operations.
Looking ahead, what’s your vision for the drone industry over the next 5–10 years, and how will Nokia’s technologies help shape that future?
The drone industry will likely see significant growth in autonomous operations, beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) capabilities, and integration into broader IoT ecosystems. Nokia envisions a future where drones are seamlessly connected through intelligent, secure, and high-performance wireless networks. By continuing to innovate in 5G, AI, and edge computing, Nokia aims to be a key enabler in unlocking new use cases across logistics, public safety, environmental monitoring, and more.
