Quantum Spotlight: Xairos is selected for the Netherlands Ministry of Defence’s “Quantum Challenges.”
Security Emphasis: The effort aims to strengthen clock synchronization in GNSS- and RF-denied areas.
Global Collaboration: Xairos teams with QuDef and Qubitrium to demonstrate quantum timing in real-world settings.
Xairos Systems, Inc. (Xairos UK, Ltd.) has been chosen by the Materiel and IT Command (COMMIT) under the Netherlands Ministry of Defence for the Purple NECtar “Quantum Challenges” initiative. This selection highlights the growing global focus on next-generation timing solutions, particularly for areas where satellite signals might be unavailable. Together with QuDef and Qubitrium, Xairos will showcase methods to boost security and durability in Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT).
Over the next eight months, the group plans a live display of Quantum Time Transfer (QTT). Consequently, secure clock syntonization and synchronization will be tested under demanding conditions. These trials are expected to culminate in a real-time demonstration at Purple NECtar/Innovation in Defence in November 2025.
"We are honored to be recognized by the Netherlands Ministry of Defence, and to work with Qubitrium on creating a smaller hardware quantum payload for UAS applications in the future, and with QuDef to evaluate and improve the security of this critical system."
— David Mitlyng, CEO of Xairos
QuDef, known for quantum-security expertise, and Qubitrium, developer of compact quantum hardware, both bring essential knowledge to the project. Because QuDef has been examining quantum communication systems, it will assess how QTT can maintain reliable results in wireless-constrained environments. Meanwhile, Qubitrium provides compact quantum devices designed for satellites and smaller unmanned systems.
"Our team has been evaluating quantum communication systems, so we look forward to working with Qubitrium and Xairos on developing quantum timing designs that are resilient in the toughest RF- and GNSS-denied environments."
— Bob Dirks, CEO of QuDef
This collaboration also opens the door to miniaturized implementations. In fact, Qubitrium aims to reduce the size and power requirements of quantum hardware without sacrificing performance.
"Qubitrium has a long heritage with miniaturized quantum communication systems, for cubesats in particular, so we appreciate the opportunity to demonstrate our capabilities and deliver on our promise at the Purple NECtar event."
— Kadir Durak, CEO of Qubitrium
According to Xairos, developments in quantum-based timing may support secure communications and navigation. Therefore, decision-makers see these efforts as a forward-looking step toward robust systems in scenarios where standard signals are blocked or compromised.
