A trial led by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory
(Dstl) has
helped develop a new generation of critically improved atomic
clock technology for the UK military.
UK forces must be able to operate across all terrains, locations
and climates. This requires crucial position, navigation and
timing (PNT)
data - mostly provided by satellite technology, such as GPS. This
can easily be denied or interrupted, potentially impacting
activities.
Matthew Aldous, formerly Dstl's theme
lead for Quantum Sensing, said:
Timing plays a massive role in society, such as navigation for
emergency services to banks dispensing cash from machines.
We are building the next generation of atomic clocks which will
provide new capabilities, better performance and improved
resilience.
We are using our expertise to ensure our defence and security
customers have a detailed understanding of advances in technology
and how we can help them integrate and exploit it.
Clock details
Clocks require 3 components: a mechanism that creates a
consistent frequency, a device that counts this frequency, and a
method to convert the counter into a displayable time.
Atomic clocks use waves of light to energise atoms in such a way
that produces a frequency that is significantly more accurate
than traditional clocks.
Trial details
Dstl's trial
enabled atomic clock manufacturers to test individual components
and entire devices. The long-term unattended operation provided a
more realistic deployment test than is possible in a laboratory
environment. This allows the innovators to better understand the
robust standards required for specific military environments.
Commander Matt Steele, the Future Technology Officer for the
Royal Navy's Office of the Chief Technical Officer, said:
Having a navigation system that is precise, accurate and
persistent to provide safe navigation underwater, whether for a
crewed submarine or uncrewed vessel is critical for the Royal
Navy.
The experience gained from this, and previous trials has put the
UK in a strong position to lead globally and help shape these
technologies.
As well as improving current and future capabilities for the
military, the trial could open up new markets and opportunities
for UK industry.
One of the participants, Far Field Exploits, is a small
enterprise founded by former military personnel. Director Simon
Merrett said:
We make a wireless time and frequency transfer system for atomic
clocks. We didn't have the test and measurement expertise in
house or the specialist equipment. Dstl provided
both of those which was a great collaboration.
Next steps
A further trial is planned for 2027 which will focus on specific
military challenges, expanding beyond just atomic clocks. The
goal is by 2030 the UK will have deployed quantum navigation
systems, including atomic clocks, on an aircraft for
next-generation accuracy.
Read our It takes two to entangle -
a Dstl biscuit
book for a simple guide to quantum technology.
