AQNav is a significant navigation technology that utilizes AI-driven Large Quantitative Models (LQMs), advanced quantum sensors, and the Earth's magnetic field to offer a robust navigation solution that is immune to jamming and spoofing. This system works in all weather conditions, day or night, and does not depend on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). SandboxAQ specializes in LQMs, particularly in extracting navigational signals from background magnetic noise.

This latest funding builds on a previous Direct-to-Phase-II SBIR contract awarded to SandboxAQ in January 2023. To date, AQNav has logged over 200 flight hours and more than 40 sorties across diverse regions and on four different aircraft types, from single-engine planes to large military transport aircraft. The system has been successfully tested in USAF exercises, including Exercise Golden Phoenix and Exercise Mobility Guardian, Air Mobility Command's largest exercise to date.

"The new TACFI contract exemplifies the strong collaborative relationship we have with the USAF and the continued confidence they have in our MagNav platform," said Luca Ferrara, General Manager of Navigation at SandboxAQ. "We are incredibly excited to expand AQNav's capabilities and further demonstrate its ability to provide accurate navigation when GPS is unavailable or unreliable."

"In an era of rapidly evolving technology and increasingly sophisticated adversaries, it is critical that the USAF maintain tactical air dominance in highly contested environments when adversaries employ robust GPS spoofing and targeted jamming," said Jen Sovada, President, Global Public Sector, at SandboxAQ. "AQNav offers a highly precise and secure position and navigation solution that can withstand adversarial disruptions, making it suitable for the most demanding military applications."

"AFWERX is expanding the MagNav capability through SandboxAQ to rapidly enable critical operations in denied environments," said Lt Col Josh Fehd, AFWERX Autonomy Prime Branch Chief. "The rapid development and deployment of MagNav technology is imperative for the USAF to ensure a strategic advantage over our peer adversaries, enable mission continuity, and improve the safety of our warfighters and infrastructure when facing the denial or degradation of critical GPS systems."

How AQNav Works
AQNav employs a quantum magnetometer to collect data from Earth's crustal magnetic field, which has unique geographic patterns akin to a fingerprint. The system uses LQMs to compare this data with known magnetic maps, enabling precise and quick location determination. The high sensitivity of quantum sensors is enhanced by AI algorithms that filter out mechanical, electrical, or other interference, ensuring accurate positioning.

AQNav is globally available and can be applied across different domains, including air, land, and sea. The system does not rely on visual cues or satellite signals, and it functions under any weather conditions. Its passive technology does not emit electronic signals, which reduces detectability. Additionally, AQNav operates at room temperature, does not require shielding, and is compact enough to be integrated into various platforms, from large aircraft to unmanned aerial vehicles.

Given the growing need for GPS resilience across society and the economy, SandboxAQ is positioning AQNav as a dual-use solution. Beyond the USAF, SandboxAQ is collaborating with several aerospace leaders, including other allied governments, Boeing, and Acubed-the Silicon Valley innovation arm of Airbus-to test and further develop AQNav.

Next phase of USAF contract will explore additional configurations for deployment on a wider range of aircraft platforms, including unmanned aerial systems

Related Links
SandboxAQ's AQNav
GPS Applications, Technology and Suppliers