Dialog Successfully Trials Wi-Fi 6 powered by 5G via Drones for the First Time in Sri Lanka

Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s premier connectivity provider, successfully completed a ground-breaking trial of Wi-Fi 6/5G technology on drones, marking a national first and unlocking new possibilities for enhanced connectivity across various industries.

The trial demonstrated the combined power of Wi-Fi 6/5G and aerial drone technology in delivering connectivity to inaccessible or hard-to-reach areas across the country. This breakthrough carries significant implications for various industrial applications, including emergency response, disaster relief, demand management at large-scale events, rural development, agriculture and forestry. Network-enabled drones have the potential of providing spontaneous coverage, cost-effective infrastructure solutions, and rapid deployment while delivering faster speeds and catering to large loads.

This initiative was conducted by the “The Future Zone" 5G Innovation Centre established by Dialog at the University of Moratuwa, as part of its Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) Initiative, which aims to enhance this development of 5G technology on drones using open-source packages and commercially off-the-shelf components. This approach seeks to increase flexibility, cost-efficiency, and scalability.

This trial is part of Dialog's ongoing commitment to innovation, paving future efforts and setting the stage for further advancements in Sri Lanka. As part of this commitment, Dialog established 5G Innovation ‘Future Zones’ at leading Universities and research institutions to incubate interest-driven learning, innovation and entrepreneurship for future leaders by bridging academia with industries.Dialog remains committed to making a positive impact in Sri Lanka by introducing emerging technological solutions as a transformative enabler for large community interests and empowering industries.