Quantum Entanglement on Drones

Devices that make use of quantum phenomena are being developed at an ever-increasing pace as the field of quantum information transitions from ‘understanding’ to ‘control’ in order to harness aspects of quantum mechanics to realize capabilities in computing, sensing, and communication that are simply not possible in the classical world. The growing prevalence of quantum devices will, in turn, drive the need for a network capable of providing quantum connections between these devices. Quantum entanglement is a foundational resource for quantum networks that will one day enable large-scale quantum communication and connect quantum computers and sensors at widely separated locations. The development of quantum networks is challenging, especially when considered in the context of the DoD space, where mission-critical networks must be robust against disruptive adversarial activities and must be quickly reconfigurable to accommodate mobile assets in an ever-changing landscape. To address this need, Qubitekk proposes to develop and demonstrate the transmission of entangled photons between unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and between UAVs and ground stations. The multi-phase project, which will include partners Florida Atlantic University and L3Harris Technologies, will begin with a Phase I study that will produce: a) benchmark tests of all of the major subsystems needed for UAV-to-UAV and UAV-to-ground entangled photon exchange; and b) prototype designs for these systems in order to meet UAV operational constraints. These designs will form the roadmap for the Phase II project, which will focus on system development and flight tests.