A flight test campaign in the UK has demonstrated the components of quantum-based navigation systems that cannot be jammed or spoofed by hostile actors.
The jamming and spoofing of global satellite positioning systems is a growing problem in aviation, particularly across Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and the sector is taking steps to combat the threat.
The development of quantum-based Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) systems offer a way of improving positioning accuracy and resilience, independent of traditional satellite navigation that use GPS.
The flight tests demonstrated an optical atomic clock including quantum technology company Infleqtion’s Tiqker, and core elements of a quantum inertial sensor aboard defence company QinetiQ’s RJ100 Airborne Technology Demonstrator.
The R&D and testing is part of a National Quantum Strategy that aims to deploy quantum navigation systems on aircraft. The series of flight tests from the Ministry of Defence base at Boscombe Down, Wiltshire are the first such flights worldwide that have been publicly acknowledged. The £10.5 million (US$13.2 million) project also involved BAE Systems.
PNT systems determine location, navigate, and keep track of time by using extremely precise clocks. Ultracold atoms – atoms that have been cooled to temperatures near absolute zero – are used to build quantum accelerometers and gyroscopes, and form the core of a Quantum Inertial Navigation System (Q-INS).
Dr Timothy Balance, Infleqtion UK president said, “Our recent trials mark a significant step forward in the development of quantum PNT solutions. The work we have done directly addresses the critical need to reduce our reliance on satellite navigation systems, which are vulnerable to various risks.
“The successful flight trials demonstrate the potential of quantum technology in overcoming navigation system challenges, which is an exciting development for future applications in the aerospace industry and beyond.”
Henry White, sensing technology lead at BAE Systems said, “These trials are an important step forward in developing quantum technology that could offer a significant military advantage.
“Knowing reliably and precisely when and where any asset and sensor system are, feeds into additional options for platform design and capability. This will play a big role in supporting the development of next generation combat air systems.”
Simon Galt, managing director air at QinetiQ said, “We’re proud to be partnering with BAE Systems and Infleqtion to enable the successful trial of this cutting-edge technology, demonstrating our ability to rapidly and effectively collaborate across the defence ecosystem, combining our quantum expertise with our Airborne Technology Demonstrator jet.”
