Q-CTRL Quantum Navigation Defeats GPS Jamming in 144-Hour Naval Trial

Q-CTRL successfully demonstrated its quantum dual gravimeter aboard the Royal Australian Navy's MV Sycamore on July 16, 2025, achieving over 144 hours of continuous GPS-free navigation without human intervention. The software-ruggedized quantum sensing system measures tiny variations in Earth's gravity to provide positioning that cannot be jammed or spoofed, addressing critical vulnerabilities as 970 ships daily face GPS disruption in key waterways. Technical breakthrough: The gravimeter operates in a "strapdown" configuration within a single server rack, consuming just 180W of power—10 times less than a household toaster. Q-CTRL's software overcomes ship motion and engine vibrations that traditionally degrade quantum sensors by hundreds of times. Strategic significance: With GPS denial valued at over $1 billion per day in the US alone, this passive and undetectable technology enables weeks or months of navigation in contested environments. The company has partnerships with Australian Defence, UK's DASA, and US Defense Innovation Unit for rapid deployment across allied fleets.
[Inside HPC]

This story is part of the Maritime AI Digest of 20 July 2025.