Australian quantum clocks successfully trialled in US: Conroy

A six-week test of four Australian-developed quantum technology-based clocks, which had their performance tested by AUKUS partners in Washington DC, has been hailed as a success.

According to a statement from defence industry minister Pat Conroy on Tuesday, the project was supported through two government contracts totalling $2.7 million. It saw two clocks each provided by Adelaide‑based QuantX Labs and the University of Adelaide.

Quantum clocks can be used for purposes including reliable position, navigation and timing when GPS signals can’t be relied on due to being jammed, spoofed or non-existent. 

The recent Washington trials saw the four clocks tested under various environmental conditions to evaluate their performance and potential for defence applications, including communication and navigation systems.

The outcomes – which were not given in the release – are to be “shared among AUKUS partners to inform analysis of how quantum clocks may be used in future defence operations.”

Conroy said: “This collaboration harnesses expertise and experience from AUKUS partners and leverages emerging technologies to deliver the capabilities our militaries need.

“Through AUKUS Pillar II, we are achieving capability development faster than any one of our nations could achieve alone.”

Picture: Defence Science and Technology Group scientist Dr Ben Sparkes (left), working with Australian- built quantum clocks at the University of Adelaide. (Credit Defence)

Further reading

Defence launches quantum project to secure military timing systems

QuantX Labs to demonstrate quantum clock in space

Australian Defence looks to quantum mechanics for new technologies

You won’t believe how badly this tiny Australian clock just embarrassed the entire GPS system