Quantum sensing can secure Australia’s future
Interesting
Rajiv Shah
So, what gives.
Absolutely, Leon. That blog from The Strategist lays out a compelling case for why quantum sensing—not quantum computing—could be Australia’s most immediate opportunity to lead in a critical emerging tech domain. Here's a breakdown tailored to your technical and strategic lens:
🧠 What Is Quantum Sensing?
Quantum sensing uses the extreme sensitivity of quantum systems to detect minute changes in gravity, magnetism, or time. Instead of fighting quantum instability, it harnesses it to achieve precision far beyond conventional sensors.
Key technologies:
- Quantum gravimeters: Detect tiny accelerations to track movement or scan underground features (voids, water tables, mineral deposits).
- Quantum magnetometers: Use Earth’s magnetic field as a reference for navigation, especially where GPS is denied.
🛰 Strategic Relevance: PNT Resilience
Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) systems—critical for ports, power grids, and defense—rely heavily on satellite signals, which are vulnerable to jamming or spoofing (as seen in Ukraine).
Quantum sensors offer:
- Inertial navigation via gravimeters (movement over time).
- Magnetic navigation via magnetometers (Earth’s field as reference).
These systems don’t replace satellites but augment them, adding resilience in denied or degraded environments.
🇦🇺 Australia’s Edge—and Risk
Australia has world-class quantum talent, but risks falling into the “breakthrough research, stalled deployment” trap. The blog argues that quantum sensing is reaching operational maturity now, unlike quantum computing which remains a long-term bet.
Two standout companies:
- Nomad Atomics: Compact, deployable sensors; received a defense grant to develop 3D navigation sensors.
- Q-CTRL: Quantum-enhanced inertial navigation; successful test flights and maritime trials with the Royal Australian Navy.
🛡 Beyond Defense: National Resilience
The Department of Home Affairs has flagged satellite disruption as a risk to critical infrastructure. Quantum sensing could underpin a civil and defense capability, not just military tech.
🧭 What’s Missing: A Coordinated Strategy
The blog calls for a national quantum sensing strategy involving:
- Defense, Home Affairs, Industry, and technical agencies like ASD.
- Clear capability targets, certification pathways, and performance-linked investment.
- A shift from lab demos to field-ready systems.
🏁 Bottom Line
Quantum sensing is a rare frontier tech where Australia has a lead—but it’s fragile. The sensors work. The companies exist. What’s needed is delivery posture, not just discovery.
“Strategic capability depends on more than discovery; it depends on delivery.”
Lots going on, or not going on as the case may be
#enoughsaid