UK military started using quantum navigation operating without satellites

The Royal Navy has completed Arctic trials of quantum computing enhanced inertial navigation sensors developed with Imperial College London. The tests assessed satellite-free positioning in environments where GPS is unavailable or unreliable.

The sensors use cold-atom quantum effects to measure acceleration and rotation with high long-term stability. This enables navigation without external signals and provides resilience to jamming, spoofing, and signal loss.

The Arctic deployment followed earlier demonstrations since 2018. Those included trials aboard Royal Navy vessels and testing within the London Underground. The work forms part of a year-long effort to move the technology from laboratory research to operational use.

Global navigation satellite systems do not function underground or underwater and can be disrupted by terrain, weather, or interference. UK estimates indicate that a single day of GPS denial could cost more than £1 billion to the national economy.

Imperial’s sensors rely on the wave-like behavior of cold atoms. With a known starting position, measured acceleration and rotation can determine location over time without transmitting or receiving signals. The devices are designed to remain accurate and stable over extended periods.

Laboratory performance has been strong, but maritime use presents additional challenges. The Arctic trial tested operation in unpredictable conditions to assess durability, shock resistance, and suitability for shipboard environments.

The first Imperial quantum navigation sensors were demonstrated in 2018. They were first deployed at sea aboard the Royal Navy research ship Patrick Blackett in 2023. Subsequent testing supported potential use in transport and other real-world settings.

The latest trial took place aboard MV Anvil Point. Royal Navy officials said the testing helped evaluate revised quantum inertial navigation sensing technology and informed further development for future maritime applications.

The program continues collaboration between the Royal Navy and Imperial College London to prepare quantum navigation systems for operational deployment across maritime and transport domains.