Q-CTRL has conducted successful defense trials at sea for its new maritime quantum navigation solution. The trials were performed with Australian Defence on board the Royal Australian Navy’s Multi-role Aviation Training Vessel (MATV), MV Sycamore. This marks a validation of software-ruggedized quantum sensing technology for navigation within a real-world maritime environment.
In these trials, Q-CTRL field-deployed a quantum dual gravimeter, which measures variations in Earth’s gravity to provide positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) information when GPS is unavailable or untrusted. The system operated continuously for over 144 hours, successfully collecting data without human intervention during maritime operations. The dual gravimeter was installed in a “strapdown” configuration within a single server rack and consumed 180W of power. Q-CTRL’s software-ruggedization strategies addressed signal degradation caused by the ship’s motion and engine vibrations, recovering sensor operation. This effort builds on earlier successful airborne field trials of quantum-magnetic navigation solutions.
The development directly addresses the strategic challenges posed by GPS denial in defense and commercial settings, offering a reliable GPS alternative that is not susceptible to jamming or spoofing. Quantum sensors operate based on fundamental physical laws, providing outputs that do not change over time, enabling long-term stability essential for navigation over extended periods. Q-CTRL’s navigation capability is relevant in contested maritime environments where GPS signal disruptions have previously occurred.
Q-CTRL has established partnerships with the Australian Department of Defence and secured contracts with the UK’s DASA accelerator and support from the UK Royal Navy for field trials. The company has also been awarded a U.S. Defense Innovation Unit program and selected for trials with the U.S. Department of Defense in quantum navigation. These engagements demonstrate the application of quantum sensing technology in critical defense operations, including crewed and autonomous vehicle navigation. Further details of the technical demonstration are published in Nature.
Read the full announcement here.
July 16, 2025
