Defence Trailblazer, QuantX Labs and the University of Adelaide collaborate on atomic clock technology

Australia’s Defence Trailblazer has signed a strategic partnership with the University of Adelaide and Adelaide-based QuantX Labs, aimed at advancing cutting-edge quantum technologies.

This partnership, building on four years of collaboration, will focus on advancing atomic clock technology with the aim of exceeding current industry standards and significantly enhancing navigation networks.

When global satellite navigation networks like GPS become unavailable, critical infrastructure—such as data centres, electricity networks, stock exchanges, telecommunications, and defence technology—can be compromised due to their reliance on precise synchronisation across multiple locations. The development of advanced clocks ensures these systems remain synchronised for extended periods, even when satellite signals are jammed or spoofed.

This concern is no longer theoretical; multiple conflict zones worldwide are currently experiencing these challenges.

QuantX Labs is developing a suite of quantum clocks for both terrestrial and space applications. This project will explore alternate techniques to ensure their TEMPO clock is developed with the best, fit-for-purpose technologies.

Additionally, a University of Adelaide PhD student, Lachlan Pointon, will be working on novel techniques for optical clocks leading to greater precision. High precision clocks provide greater stability, providing critical navigation capabilities for the warfighter in GPS-degraded environments, ensuring reliable operations when traditional systems fail.

Professor Andre Luiten, chief innovator at the University of Adelaide’s Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS), is the lead researcher on this project.

“This Defence Trailblazer project unites a team of globally leading clock researchers at the University of Adelaide with QuantX Labs, Australia’s foremost company in precision clocks and sensor technology,” he said. “These joint efforts will enable nationally significant research to transition from the laboratory to products that can be utilised by our trusted partners.”

Dr Margaret Law, General Manager, Technology Development & Acceleration at Defence Trailblazer said of the collaboration, “This strategic partnership represents a pivotal moment in our pursuit of innovative solutions for critical infrastructure resilience. By advancing atomic clock technology, we are not only enhancing navigation capabilities but also ensuring that our defence systems remain robust in the face of emerging challenges.”