A new quantum RF system could outperform antennas in jammed environments

Infleqtion unveiled Quantum Spectrum, an atom-based radio-frequency receiver that uses excited atoms instead of traditional antennas.

The system relies on Rydberg atoms to detect a very wide range of signals, including in jammed or contested environments.

Government-backed testing is underway in the U.S., U.K., and Australia, with Army Research Laboratory and RIQER among the related efforts.

If it proves practical outside the lab, the technology could lead to smaller, more flexible, and more resilient receivers for defense, navigation, and communications.