Lockheed Martin to develop quantum navigation system for the US military

Lockheed Martin has signed a contract with the Defence Innovation Unit (DIU) to create a prototype quantum inertial navigation system that can operate without GPS.

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The new system is called QuINS and is based on motion-sensitive quantum sensors that allow for accurate determination of the position, speed and orientation of the platform even in the absence of a satellite signal.

Lockheed Martin will implement this project in collaboration with Q-CTRL and AOSense. The first phase will evaluate the performance of QuINS and test its capabilities in realistic scenarios. The DIU emphasises that quantum sensors can significantly improve the accuracy of navigation systems on the battlefield.

According to Valerie Browning, vice president of research and technology at Lockheed Martin, cooperation with leaders in quantum technologies will create an advanced solution that will meet the needs of the military and can save lives in combat.

The United States is actively developing quantum technologies in the military, in particular for navigation in difficult conditions. The DARPA agency is working on the Robust Quantum Sensors programme, which involves the development of quantum sensors for mobile military platforms. In addition to navigation, quantum technologies can be used in encryption, communications and computing.

Source: Lockheed Martin