South Australian company QuantX Labs, has partnered with the University of Adelaide to advance cutting-edge quantum technology that will elevate Defence’s navigation and communication capabilities in challenging environments.

The Defence Trailblazer-led research collaboration will focus on developing atomic clock technology to significantly enhance navigation networks and support Defence applications.

The University of Adelaide’s Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS) chief innovator and lead researcher on the project Professor Andre Luiten said the project builds on four years of collaboration and unites a team of globally leading clock researchers with technical experts at QuantX Labs, a world-leader in high-precision timing and quantum sensor technologies.

“These joint efforts will enable nationally significant research to transition from the laboratory to products that can be utilised by our trusted partners,” Prof Luiten said.

When global satellite navigation networks, like GPS become unavailable, critical infrastructure, such as data centres and defence technology, can be compromised due to their reliance on precise synchronisation across multiple locations.

The development of advanced clocks ensures these systems remain synchronised for extended periods, even when satellite signals are jammed or spoofed – an increasing challenge for Defence in complex modern-day conflicts and degraded environments.

QuantX Labs has developed a suite of quantum clocks for both terrestrial and space applications, including its TEMPO clock, which provides precise navigation on mobile platforms that can be deployed into low and medium earth orbit satellite constellations.

Dr Sebastian Ng, Head of PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing) and the sponsor of this research at QuantX Labs said the project will explore alternate techniques to ensure their TEMPO clock is developed with the best, fit-for-purpose technologies.

“Defence Trailblazer gives us the ability to harness the complementary expertise and talents of our company’s staff and those of the researchers and graduate students at University of Adelaide. Together, we’re ready and able to push the limits of precision timing,” Dr Ng said.

Defence Trailblazer technology development and acceleration general manager Dr Margaret Law said the collaboration represents a pivotal moment in the pursuit of innovative solutions for critical infrastructure resilience.

“By advancing atomic clock technology, we are not only enhancing navigation capabilities but also ensuring that our defence systems remain robust in the face of emerging challenges,” Dr Law said.

To learn more about the collaboration, read the full media release.

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Photo (L-R): Hamish Earl, Dr Margaret Law, Professor Andre Luiten (University of Adelaide), Dr Sanjay Mazumdar, Dr Sebastian Ng (QuantX Labs), Lachlan Pointon (PhD student, University of Adelaide), and Rohan Bishop, from Defence Trailblazer. Sourced via Defence Trailblazer.