Saab Tests Military Radar Network Using Quantum Timing
Saab UK, Aquark Technologies, and the Royal Navy have successfully trialed a military radar network that operates independently of GPS timing. The demonstration utilized quantum technology to maintain a coherent operational picture.
Saab UK, in collaboration with Aquark Technologies and the Royal Navy's Disruptive Capabilities and Technologies Office (DCTO), has concluded a UK trial demonstrating a military radar network's ability to function without GPS timing signals.
The trial integrated Saab's Giraffe 1X radar system with Aquark's AQlock quantum technology. This marks what is believed to be a world-first demonstration of a distributed, high-performance military radar network maintaining a coherent operational picture using independent quantum timing sources.
Results from the trial confirmed that Giraffe 1X radars, situated at separate locations, could continue to operate in sync without relying on external GPS signals. Instead, they utilized Aquark's quantum clocks for timing, enhancing network resilience and reliability in environments where GPS availability is limited or nonexistent.
This advancement is strategically significant for military operations, offering greater operational independence and security. By reducing reliance on vulnerable external timing sources, the technology strengthens the robustness of defense systems against potential interference or denial of service.