Quantum Sensors Offer Backup as GPS Jamming Surges
Mar 1st 2026
As GPS jamming incidents rise across Europe and the Black Sea region, quantum sensors that detect magnetic and gravity signals are being developed as an alternative by contractors working with the U.S. government and defense firms.
- GPS jamming and spoofing incidents have climbed sharply in parts of Europe and the Black Sea region, rising from a few dozen daily in late 2023 to over 1,000 daily.
- NATO has accused Russia of jamming GPS signals used by civilian aircraft and ships while Russia denies targeting civilian systems.
- Q-CTRL and partners are developing quantum navigation sensors that use trapped atoms to measure magnetic and gravity shifts and do not rely on satellites.
- The U.S. government and defense contractors including Lockheed Martin have contracted Q-CTRL to adapt quantum navigation for aircraft, and the company says commercial deployment is planned later this year.
- Quantum sensors promise jam resistant navigation but face technical challenges of fragility and complexity that leave broader timelines uncertain.