Four Australian-developed quantum technology clocks were successfully trialled in the United States as part of the Albanese Government’s AU$2.7 million investment towards AUKUS Pillar II capabilities, according to the Minister for Defence Industry. The six-week trials in Washington, D.C., saw Adelaide-based QuantX Labs and the University of Adelaide each contribute two quantum clocks, tested by AUKUS partners under various environmental conditions.
Quantum clocks are used to synchronize communications networks, detect GPS spoofing and jamming, and provide reliable position, navigation, and timing in contested environments. Integrating this technology into AUKUS partners’ militaries would enhance the ADF’s ability to operate where GPS is unreliable or unavailable.
Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said the collaboration “harnesses expertise and experience from AUKUS partners” and that “through AUKUS Pillar II, we are achieving capability development faster than any one of our nations could achieve alone.” Trial outcomes were to be shared among AUKUS partners to inform future defence operations.