Integrating the Quantum Advantage: From Modelling to Mission Planning

The Integration Imperative

As a global technology leader investing over €4 billion annually in R&D, Thales is applying its expertise in secure systems, sensors, and data processing to make quantum technology practical and trustworthy.

Assured Navigation through Quantum Sensor Modelling

Reliable navigation is vital for civil and defence operations alike, yet Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) such as GPS can be disrupted or denied. Thales is developing quantum sensors that can maintain accurate positioning even without satellite signals.

These sensors work by using ultra-precise measurements of atoms to detect movement and orientation. Because they rely on fundamental physical properties rather than external signals, they can remain stable and accurate over long periods.

To make these systems viable in real conditions, Thales has built a digital modelling and simulation environment that predicts how quantum sensors behave under vibration, motion, or temperature changes. This systems-engineering approach enables Thales to design and integrate Alternative Positioning, Navigation and Timing (PNT) solutions that maintain trust and performance even in GPS-denied environments, a key step toward sovereign navigation capability.

Accelerated Mission Planning through Quantum Computing

Modern defence missions require rapid, data-driven decisions, yet many planning problems involve so many variables that traditional computers struggle to find the best solution in time.

Thales is exploring how quantum computing could dramatically speed up this process. Using quantum methods designed for optimisation, Thales can model mission planning as a map of possible routes and outcomes, and then use quantum processors to evaluate millions of combinations simultaneously.

This helps identify the most efficient plan , balancing speed, safety, and resources, in a fraction of the time classical systems would take.
Early studies suggest such quantum-enhanced optimisation could deliver real benefits before the end of this decade, especially when combined with conventional computing in hybrid workflows. These advances could give armed forces faster, smarter ways to make decisions in data-intensive environments.

Trust, Security, and the Systems Challenge

Quantum’s transformative power brings engineering complexity. As the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) highlights, quantum technologies behave differently from conventional systems, they can be unpredictable and sensitive to their environment.

To ensure reliability and safety, Thales applies quantum systems engineering, embedding modelling, simulation, and architectural design early in development. This helps new quantum technologies meet standards for trust, certification, and security, ensuring they can be integrated safely within critical systems.

Thales’s approach aligns with the UK’s National Quantum Strategy, supporting national goals for secure, regulated, and industrialised quantum technology. Beyond sensing and computing, Thales is also safeguarding the future of cybersecurity, developing Europe’s first quantum-resistant smartcard to protect sensitive data against future quantum threats.

Collaboration and Sovereignty

The UK hosts one of the world’s most vibrant quantum ecosystems, with start-ups, universities, and major industry players working side by side. Thales plays a crucial role as a systems integrator, bridging research and deployment.

By combining its expertise in secure systems with UK-based research partnerships, Thales is helping to build a sovereign, export-ready quantum industry. Its participation at the National Quantum Technologies Showcase demonstrates this collaborative ethos , highlighting practical, deployable quantum solutions that strengthen resilience, security, and technological independence.

Engineering the Quantum Advantage

Quantum is no longer just a scientific concept, it is an engineering reality. Thales’ work in quantum sensing, computing, and secure integration shows what the Second Quantum Revolution looks like in practice: translating physics into operational capability.

Thales: Integrating the Quantum Advantage for Critical Systems and Superior Decision-Making.

Discover how Thales in the UK is helping to engineer trusted, sovereign quantum systems.

➡️ Learn more at thalesgroup.com/en/research-and-innovation/new-world-quantum

➡️ Thales, DSTL, QinetiQ, and Partners Advocate for the Rise of Quantum Systems Engineering - learn more at Quantum Insider