Precise & Covert Quantum Light Sensors for Defence
MQI is a spin-off from the Technical University of Munich that supplies ready-to-use, scalable superconducting nanowire single-photon detector systems (SNSPD). These are key hardware components for the next generation of optical quantum sensing. Our demonstrator systems are ready for use, have been tested in ESA projects and are protected by several patents (detector design, optical coupling and cryo-multiplexing).
In cooperation with Bishop GmbH, these advanced technologies are now made available to new partners and customers across the defence and security sector.
Conventional LIDAR reaches its limits in poor lighting conditions, with stealth targets and in covert operations. MQI’s SNSPD-based quantum sensor systems, provided through the Bishop network, overcome these limitations.
Example application scenarios:
- Enhanced LIDAR and Covert target detection. Reconnaissance of drones, aircraft, and hard-to-detect objects with >10 times earlier detection than conventional LIDAR.
- Through-obscurants Imaging. Mapping and imaging through fog, smoke, camouflage or darkness without active illumination, using ultra-low, undetectable transmission power.
- Space situation awareness. Satellite tracking and tracing at the single-photon level (low probability of intercept).
Our technological edge:
- Scalable system architecture. Enables up to 1024 pixels in a compact, field-ready cryostat in the medium term (state-of-the-art: 16-32 pixels).
- Integrated 3D-printed optics. Enables multi-channel chips for high efficiency in the IR range and efficient free-space coupling.
- Highest performance. >90% efficiency for single photon detection, <50 ps time jitter, near-zero dark count rates.
MQI in the European defence network:
- Active in the EU’s EUDIS Business Accelerator. ESA-BIC alumni.
- ESA contracts in secure quantum communication (ESA Scylight/EuroQCI Program).
- Well connected in the Munich ecosystem (TU Munich, University of the Federal Armed Forces, Fraunhofer EMFT).