Grand Challenge on Quantum Sensors for Inertial Navigation

The Grand Challenge on Quantum Sensors for Inertial Navigation aims to advance the development of quantum-enabled navigation systems for use in GNSS-denied or contested environments. Q-INS combines quantum sensors with classical inertial measurement subsystems to deliver reliable, resilient, and sovereign positioning capabilities. The topic supports the EU’s ambition to strengthen technological sovereignty in strategic navigation infrastructures, aligned with the objectives of the STEP and the Digital Decade.

Under this topic (Phase 1), projects are expected to deliver a comprehensive technical, industrialisation, and financial roadmap, including criteria for investment readiness, bankability, risk assessment, and scalability, thereby laying the groundwork for future investments via EU financial instruments under InvestEU, which benefits from a dedicated top-up from Horizon Europe for this purpose[[ HORIZON-CL4 Indirectly managed action “Quantum Top-Up to InvestEU: Grand Challenge Phase 2”]].

Under Phase 1, Expressions of Interest from potential end-user partners are strongly encouraged. Tailored advisory services from EIB Advisory may support financial structuring to prepare for Phase 2.

Projects funded under this action are expected to span approximately six months, with an EU contribution up to EUR 0.5 million.