# Agentic AI and inference to supercharge front-end networks growth – Dell'Oro > Source: > Published: 2026-08-13 14:13:39+00:00 Featured Story ## Lockheed Martin preps drone detection service using Verizon 5G Lockheed Martin plans to offer a 5G drone detection service next year using Verizon's network and tech from Nvidia, ODC, Keysight and subsidiary Astris AI. Nearly 40% CAGR in new AI pull-through opportunities in front-end networks. #pressrelease August 13, 2026 According to a recently published report by Dell'Oro Group, the trusted source for information about the telecommunications, networks, and data center industries, the rise of agentic AI and inference workloads is driving new demand and introducing network requirements that differ from those associated with training workloads. This shift is leading to significant expansion of front-end networks to support the broader buildout of AI infrastructure. We estimate that more than half of the growth in Front-end Data Center Switch sales over the next few years will be driven by AI-related opportunities. These deployments represent net-new expansion opportunities for both established vendors and new market entrants. Additional highlights from the Data Center Switch—Front-end Networks 5-Year July 2026 Forecast Report: AI-related front-end network build-outs will spearhead 800 Gbps and 1.6 Tbps adoption in front-end networks. Accton, Arista, Celestica, Cisco, HPE/Juniper, H3C, Huawei, NVIDIA and others—emerge as the primary beneficiaries of this growth. Read the full press release [here](https://www.delloro.com/news/agentic-ai-and-inference-to-supercharge-front-end-networks-growth/).