Field trial of tethered drones extends 5G network coverage

A groundbreaking field trial has successfully demonstrated the potential of tethered drones to extend the coverage of private 5G networks in emergency or temporary communication scenarios such as natural disasters. The initiative brought together several innovators, including Prospecta Utilities, Spooky Action, Ripper Corp and Powertec Telecommunications.

The trial effectively turned the tethered drones into flying network towers — mobile, high-performance communication infrastructure that can be rapidly deployed in disaster recovery scenarios or areas where traditional communications infrastructure is lacking or has been damaged. It was led by Mirragin Project Isidore and supported by a $75,000 contribution through the Queensland Government’s Ignite Spark Program.

Spooky Action provided the tethered drone used in the test, engineered for sustained aerial operations and capable of maintaining consistent, elevated coverage to support uninterrupted network service. Ripper Corp managed drone operations, providing experienced and licensed pilots to ensure safe and effective deployment throughout the trial. Powertec Telecommunications supplied Starlink internet services for robust backhaul connectivity, delivering mobile trailers for power and hosting support and leveraging its expertise in repeater site deployment for reliable network extension.

To fly the drone, Prospecta Utilities connected the network to a 5G core housed in a compact ‘box’, with Starlink connectivity for backhauling, for seamless communication even in remote locations. Prospecta Utilities also delivered the robust private 5G network backbone at GemLife’s Gold Coast resort, where the trial took place. The network recently retained connectivity during Cyclone Alfred.

The ability to deploy flying network towers could revolutionise disaster management and emergency response by providing immediate connectivity without the need for ground-based towers, allowing first responders and emergency teams to communicate in real time. Additionally, it showcases the potential for 5G technology to deliver fast, reliable communication in high-stakes or remote environments. The trial thus represents a breakthrough for the use of 5G-enabled drones, said Prospecta Utilities Head of Telecommunications Grant Smith.

“This solution could revolutionise emergency response and connectivity strategies by offering mobile, rapid-deploy, low-latency communications wherever and whenever they’re needed most,” he said.

“It demonstrates the flexibility of 5G networks in supporting innovative solutions that have real life impact, and which are reliant on stable and continuous connectivity.”

Beyond emergency services, the trial demonstrates a scalable solution for industries wherever immediate connectivity is required, such as mining, agriculture, sports and events management, and environmental monitoring where traditional infrastructure is not available.