Infleqtion, a quantum technology specialist, has successfully demonstrated two groundbreaking quantum technologies to protect aircraft from GPS jamming. With £8m of funding from the UK government, the team has completed commercial flight trials of advanced quantum-based navigation systems that cannot be jammed or spoofed. This project, supported by UK Research and Innovation, aims to address the UK’s heavy reliance on global navigation satellite systems. While GPS jamming is currently uncommon and does not directly affect flight paths, quantum-based navigation systems could provide a highly accurate and resilient solution over time. Infleqtion’s president, Timothy Ballance, highlights the need to reduce reliance on vulnerable satellite navigation systems. The technology tested on the flight forms part of a Quantum Inertial Navigation System (Q-INS) and has the potential to revolutionize precision navigation. UK science minister Andrew Griffith emphasizes the importance of accurate and secure navigation systems, while also recognizing the UK as a leader in quantum technology. The funding and initiatives in quantum technology aim to solidify the UK’s position as a quantum-enabled economy. Henry White of BAE Systems sees the trials as a significant step towards developing quantum technology that can offer a military advantage, providing precise location and timing information for combat air systems.
First Test of Quantum Aircraft Navigation Celebrated in the UK
