- Nokia and NestAI are developing three integrated capabilities for operations in contested environments
- The technologies combine 5G, AI mission planning and sensing to support battlefield connectivity and awareness
- The effort targets communications disruptions, electronic attacks and evolving drone threats
Nokia Defense and NestAI are developing initial operational capabilities under a technology partnership launched in November 2025, alongside Nokia and Tesi’s $114 million joint investment in the artificial intelligence defense laboratory.
What Capabilities Are Nokia & NestAI Developing?
Nokia said Thursday the partnership is building three integrated operational capabilities for defense forces operating in contested environments.
The first combines Nokia’s deployable 5G networks with NestAI’s NestOS operating system to support AI-enabled command and control, autonomous systems and communications without relying on fixed infrastructure.
The second integrates Nokia’s radio-network planning models into NestOS mission-planning tools, allowing operators to evaluate and adapt connectivity during multidomain missions while reducing coverage gaps.
The third capability pairs Nokia’s Integrated Sensing and Communications, or ISAC, capability with NestAI’s multi-sensor tracking technology to improve early threat detection and provide operators with broader situational awareness.
Why Are the Technologies Being Developed?
Through the collaboration, the companies are building the technologies to address challenges such as denied communications environments, electronic attacks and emerging drone threats. The capabilities are designed to meet North Atlantic Treaty Organization operational requirements.
What Other Defense Initiatives Is Nokia Pursuing?
The NestAI collaboration is part of Nokia Defense’s broader effort to expand its defense technology portfolio across Europe. The company joined a Finnish Border Guard-led consortium to develop an integrated counter-drone capability for patrol vehicles and vessels as part of efforts to strengthen airspace security and protect critical infrastructure.
Nokia also signed a memorandum of understanding with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace to advance deployable 5G tactical communications, with an initial focus on advanced sensors, unmanned systems integration and European Defense Fund programs.
In addition, Nokia partnered with Motorola Solutions on a tactical communications platform for U.K. defense agencies and with Leonardo to integrate private wireless technologies for mission-critical operations and public safety applications.
