Ultra-Sensitive Quantum Telemetry Receiver

The current constraints on telemetry frequency allocations, driven by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) spectrum auctioning to private cellular sectors, present a significant challenge for the Department of Defense (DoD), particularly within the Major Range Test and Facility Base (MRTFB) infrastructure. These challenges are further amplified in contested and congested environments, where signal fidelity, interference mitigation, and operational flexibility are critical for mission success. Traditional, or classical, telemetry systems face limitations in terms of bandwidth availability, signal sensitivity, and adaptability to shifting spectrum needs. As a result, the modernization of telemetry systems through cutting-edge technologies is essential to maintaining a competitive advantage. This SBIR topic seeks to develop and validate an ultra-sensitive quantum telemetry receiver based on quantum sensing technologies, specifically utilizing Rydberg sensors. Quantum sensors represent a transformative approach due to their extreme sensitivity and intrinsic wide-band frequency operation capabilities, enabling them to exploit underutilized portions of the spectrum without reliance on traditional licensed frequency bands. This innovation provides a dual benefit: addressing bandwidth scarcity and significantly enhancing signal detection performance across a broad operational scope. The desired outcome of this project is a fully validated prototype quantum telemetry receiver that can outperform classical systems with respect to signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), operational bandwidth, and environmental adaptability. Leveraging this solution will reduce the reliance on leased spectrum channels—a cost-intensive necessity in traditional systems—and preserve investments in existing telemetry infrastructure by enabling incremental upgrades rather than full system overhauls. Furthermore, this technology aligns with Air Force modernization priorities, including the integration of the Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS) to provide resilient, high-fidelity communications within the Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) architecture. Initial TRL and Target TRL: Initial TRL (at the beginning of Phase I): TRL 2 – Technology concept and/or application formulated. Target TRL (at the end of Phase II): TRL 6 – System/subsystem model or prototype demonstrated in a relevant environment. Phase I Efforts: Conduct foundational research to define key performance parameters (KPPs) for a quantum telemetry receiver, focusing on sensitivity, bandwidth, noise mitigation, and signal fidelity. Evaluate prospective quantum-based component technologies, such as Rydberg atomic sensors, to assess feasibility and identify candidate designs for further development. Develop models and simulations to predict system performance under operational conditions, including contested electromagnetic environments. Perform initial laboratory experiments to validate core concepts and benchmark against classical telemetry systems. Phase I Minimum Deliverables: Technical report detailing requirements definition, simulation results, and initial experimental findings. Performance evaluation against baseline classical telemetry systems. Preliminary design concept document outlining a scalable path toward prototype development in Phase II. Phase II Efforts: Develop and fabricate a prototype quantum telemetry receiver utilizing selected Rydberg sensor technologies and associated subsystems. Conduct extensive validation testing under relevant environmental conditions, including broadband and high-congestion scenarios. Integrate the prototype into an existing ABMS-compatible architecture for end-to-end operational assessment. Establish transition agreements and partnerships with key Air Force stakeholders to facilitate implementation and potential production scaling. Phase II Minimum Deliverables: Prototype quantum telemetry receiver, validated through rigorous performance testing in operationally relevant settings. Comprehensive technical documentation, including system operation and maintenance manuals. Final report outlining prototype performance, transition feasibility, and cost-benefit analysis compared to legacy telemetry systems. This initiative represents a critical advancement in quantum science and integrated network system-of-systems, addressing Strategic Communications and Test & Topic Review under the DoD’s Key Technology Areas. By exploiting untapped spectrum resources, enhancing signal fidelity, and enabling cost-efficient upgrades, this effort will provide AFTC/412TW with a path toward next-generation telemetry solutions that are resilient, scalable, and aligned with the DoD's long-term operational imperatives.