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Dstl

Research organisation · Porton Down

Dstl, the Ministry of Defence's science and technology agency at Porton Down, funds and tests quantum technologies for the armed forces, with navigation and timing that does not depend on GPS as a priority. A trial it reported in February 2026 ran atomic clock components and complete devices unattended for long periods, helping manufacturers such as Far Field Exploits meet military robustness standards. A broader trial is planned for 2027, aiming at quantum navigation systems on an aircraft by 2030. Dstl was a partner in the 2019 to 2024 national hubs for quantum computing and for sensors and timing.

Founded in 2001, Dstl is a research organisation in Porton Down focused on quantum sensing and computing. It appears as a partner in NQTP, QCS and UK Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors and Timing.

Sources: Trial speeds up next generation of atomic clocks | GOV.UK · Defence Science and Technology Laboratory | GOV.UK · EP/T001062/1 Quantum Computing and Simulation Hub | UKRI Gateway to Research · EP/T001046/1 UK Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors and Timing | UKRI Gateway to Research

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Profile last checked 2 October 2026

Projects (3)

Partner in (3)

  • Active Programme · 2014 onwards

    UK National Quantum Technologies Programme

    NQTP

    The UK's national programme for quantum technologies, set up in 2014 as a partnership between government, academia and industry.

    Role: Partner

    Themes: Computing, Sensing, Imaging, Timing and navigation, Communications, Networks, Skills and training

  • Completed Hub · 2019 to 2024

    UK Quantum Technology Hub in Sensors and Timing

    The phase 2 national hub for quantum sensors and clocks, led by the University of Birmingham. It ran from 2019 to 2024.

    Role: Partner

    Funding: £28.6m

    Themes: Sensing, Timing and navigation

Partnerships (6)

Research, commercial and investment relationships, by year. Partners with a profile here are linked.

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Company data from Entangled Future. Last checked 2 October 2026.

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