Dstl develops atomic clock for precision timekeeping

GPS can be compromised or blocked by attackers, and the new system could help conduct safer and more accurate operations, the government agency said. Clocks using quantum technology record time down to the second, losing less than one second over billions of years.

The Demonstration of Advanced Timing Device (DATA) is part of a planned series of experiments that will help understand the performance and limitations of quantum clocks, as well as the potential benefits for military and national infrastructure resilience.

Atomic clock

Dstl says it is the first device of its type to be built in the UK. And it could be used in military operations within the next five years. It is also the first time that Dstl has tested a UK-made optical atomic clock outside of a laboratory.

“This first test of an advanced atomic clock represents a significant advance in the UK’s quantum technology capabilities,” he said. CEO DSTLPaul Hollinshead. “The data collected will not only shape future defense efforts, but will also signal to industry and academia that we are serious about exploring quantum technologies to achieve a secure and sustainable operational advantage.”

The trial involved Infleqtion (UK), Aquark Technologies, HCD Research and Imperial College London. In addition, Dstl has developed its own technology in its own quantum laboratory. Prototypes of the frequency standards were tested in collaboration with the Royal Navy and the Army Futures team at BattleLab.

Dstl expects that further research will enable both mass production and miniaturization of the technology. This could potentially expand the range of applications to include military equipment and aircraft.

Quantum clock

In addition to providing more accurate and independent navigation systems, quantum clocks can protect communications systems. For example, encrypted military networks that depend on highly synchronized timing.

They can also improve the accuracy of modern weapons systems such as guided missiles. They rely on precise timing to calculate trajectories and coordinate attacks.

Finally, they provide advantages in time-critical operations, such as cyber warfare, where milliseconds can make all the difference.

“The Navy has been exploring quantum technology for several years now, and it is exciting to see that the physics and engineering challenges in this area are no longer just a scientific concept, but are reaching the edge of reality,” said Commander Matt Steele, incoming technical director of the Royal Navy’s Office of the Chief Technology Officer. fleet.

“Over the next few years, the ability to effectively operate, survive and navigate, and remain lethal when using Quantum in conjunction with GPS will provide an operational advantage.”

The UK Ministry of Defense, through Dstl, has invested £28 million in quantum technology.

Image: UK Government

See also: Dstl drone technology aims to eliminate the threat of mined areas