Researchers eye quantum timing for improved position, navigation, and timing (PNT) in maritime environments

WASHINGTON – U.S. military emerging capabilities experts are surveying industry for companies able to design and build prototype quantum timing technologies on short-notice in time for testing scheduled for next month.

Officials of the Washington Headquarters Services in the Pentagon issued a request for information (HQ003425RFIQTT) on Wednesday for the Quantum Timing Technology project.

Officials are planning a trilateral test of quantum timing technology under the Australia-UK-US (AUKUS) partnership, and want to identify quantum timing technologies geared for defense applications and near-term platform integration.

Quantum timing technology

The goal is to identify existing quantum timing technology with the potential for platform integration that can be available for a May 2025 test in Washington.

Quantum timing uses quantum phenomena like atomic clocks for extremely high precision and stability in time keeping. These clocks offer significantly better accuracy than traditional Cesium atomic clocks, and have potential applications in navigation, communications, and defense.

Experts will investigate the environmental sensitivity of participating prototype clocks to provide additional information into modelling and simulation efforts. Tests will provide information to plan for integration into platforms for future demonstrations of AUKUS quantum-enhanced positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) technology.

Eye on maritime environments

These environmental tests will include operation under changes in temperature, humidity, and orientation, with the option of including a dynamic orientation test to mimic challenges of maritime environments.

Proposed prototype devices should not be commercially available, but should be at least at technology readiness level 4, or components that are ready to demonstrate in the laboratory. Technologies should have the potential to be integrated into an operational platform within the next two years.

Companies interested should email 5-page white papers no later than 30 April 2025 to [email protected], with email copies to [email protected] and [email protected]. More information is online at https://sam.gov/opp/2644aa7dbede4dc19fb441962e5d36be/view.