Australia’s Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) announced a quantum research project to enhance secure timing technologies for the Australian Defence Force (ADF). Funded by the Australian Army, the project aimed to deliver two key components for a ground-to-satellite quantum link: optical ground stations and quantum light sources, according to the Department of Defence.
DSTG partnered with CSIRO, the Australian National University, and the University of Western Australia to deliver the technologies. The project responded to a growing need for resilient, precise timing systems that can operate independently of GPS in contested environments.
Quantum technology was listed as one of six Innovation, Science and Technology priorities identified in the 2024 National Defence Strategy and Defence’s IS&T Strategy, “Accelerating Asymmetric Advantage.” Chief Defence Scientist Professor Tanya Monro said the project demonstrated Defence’s commitment to emerging disruptive technologies.