DARPA has awarded Q-CTRL a contract package worth $24.4 million to advance its quantum navigation technologies for military use. The effort is designed to deliver robust sensing tools that function reliably without dependence on satellites.
Quantum navigation systems are seen as vital for operations in electronic warfare environments, where adversaries may employ jamming or spoofing tactics to disrupt GPS. By eliminating reliance on external signals, the technology promises greater security and accuracy.
Q-CTRL will leverage its prior testing experience across air, sea, and land environments to develop new-generation quantum sensors. These units will integrate artificial intelligence-driven software that removes the need for traditional shielding, allowing for deployment on moving vehicles without performance loss.
To strengthen the initiative, Lockheed Martin will serve as a subcontractor, lending its background in GPS technologies and quantum research to help integrate the systems into operational defense platforms.
