Defence has issued a call for applications to contribute to research into quantum technologies.

A two-stage selection process is being employed. First stage proposals are to be submitted by 4.30pm Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT), 13 February 2018.

Quantum technologies could be a game-changer across a range of applications including timing, sensing and navigation capabilities, communications and quantum computing.

The Federal Government has announced a $6 million investment for industry, academia and government research agencies to contribute to the development of quantum technologies for Defence.

The research aims to accelerate the exploitation of quantum technologies in a range of applications, such as highly accurate time-keeping and advanced Global Positioning System (GPS)-independent navigation.

Supported by the Next Generation Technologies Fund, the goal of Quantum Technologies research is to inform Defence of the potential benefits and practical limitations of quantum technologies through studies and demonstrator systems within three years.

Quantum technology proposals are being sought in two categories:

• Smaller proposals which deliver studies to inform Defence on the applications, feasibility and practical limitations of quantum technologies;
• Larger proposals which address the development of concepts, algorithms and/or technology demonstrators which contribute to the development of Defence relevant capabilities.

The call for applications and further information can be found on the Defence Innovation Portal.