As quantum technology advances, its role in secure communication, sensing, and metrology in aerospace applications is becoming the focus of both government and private-sector innovation. Thanks to the support of the Ohio Federal Research Network (OFRN), a collaborative team led by Dean Zody, CEO of GhostWave Inc., and Dr. Charlie Cerny, principal engineer at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is developing a groundbreaking quantum transceiver. This project exemplifies OFRN’s mission to drive innovation through university-industry partnerships that support federal laboratory requirements and create economic opportunities across Ohio.
This OFRN-supported effort is designed to address the need for resilient, secure, and efficient communication systems that overcome traditional limitations in size, weight, and environmental sensitivity, advancing the capabilities for secure aerospace communication and data fidelity in defense, research, and commercial sectors.
Dean Zody, CEO, GhostWave: "We’re building a system that’s more than just communication; it’s a secure bridge for data across air, ground, and space domains, aimed at closing key capability gaps in defense."
Highlighting Project Goals and Partner Contributions
The Quantum Transceiver Project showcases a novel approach to building secure communication and metrology capable of meeting the complex requirements of modern defense and aerospace applications. At its core, the project leverages quantum technology—specifically, Rydberg atom sensors—instead of conventional metal antennas. These sensors enable high-range and directional precision while reducing hardware bulk, paving the way for next-generation aerospace sensors with increased efficiency and conformal designs
Key project collaborators include the Air Force Research Laboratory, University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI), Converge Technologies, Infleqtion, GhostWave, and The Ohio State University. Through these partnerships, the project integrates diverse expertise and resources to refine its quantum technology for aerospace uses.
Dr. Charlie Cerny, principal engineer, AFRL: “Our team is a mix of experts across different fields, brought together by OFRN to tackle some of the most pressing communication challenges in aerospace.”
Specific Contributions of Key Partners
Infleqtion provides design support and hardware for integrating Rydberg atoms into the transceiver.
UDRI and Ohio State bring advanced fiber-to-chip coupling and data integration capabilities, ensuring high data fidelity and accelerating development.
GhostWave contributions include utilization of PhD interns for embedded software development supporting the waveform generation.
Converge Technologies supports customized waveform development, which underpins secure communications.
AFRL’s Midwest Regional Network connects the project to a wider network, including NASA, Purdue’s Quantum Lab, and the Illinois Quantum Corridor, to facilitate further collaboration and quantum advancements.
Advancing Technology for Next-Gen Defense and Aerospace
The Quantum Transceiver Project is redefining secure communication and sensing for next-generation defense and aerospace applications. Equipped with a custom waveform, this transceiver is built to withstand interception and jamming, providing secure data transmission even in congested and contested environments. Its advanced quantum magnetic sensors support long-distance vector sensing, allowing precise tracking of signal origin, direction, and strength. This level of precision is critical for defense, offering military and aerospace teams unparalleled situational awareness and resilience against threats.
Beyond secure communication, the transceiver’s broad scanning range—up to 40 GHz—enables high-precision applications across both defense and civilian fields. From secure defense communication to civilian diagnostics and chemical detection, this adaptable technology has potential in fields ranging from battlefield operations to emergency medical diagnostics. With its robust, multi-functional capabilities, the Quantum Transceiver Project represents a leap forward for secure, high-performance aerospace communication.
Dr. Cerny: "The Rydberg atom sensors enables the reception of us to capture extremely low frequencies, allowing us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in secure, long-range communication."
Tackling National Security Gaps in Quantum Technology
As the U.S. faces global competition in quantum advancements, projects like the Quantum Transceiver are part of a larger strategy to secure national defense and communication infrastructures. The U.S. government has emphasized the need for quantum technology leadership, and this project directly aligns with these national priorities, meeting defense needs in navigation, secure communication, and electronic warfare.
Dean Zody: "While other countries have pushed ahead, we’re now part of a concentrated national effort to bring quantum technology to the forefront, reinforcing our security and economic resilience."
Exploring Real-World Implications and Future Milestones
The Quantum Transceiver Project is on track for a critical milestone in Spring 2025, when field testing and proof of concept validation will guide its next stages of development and commercialization. This project’s technology holds immense potential across both defense and civilian sectors.
Dean Zody: "Imagine a single quantum system replacing the need for multiple antennas—lightweight, secure, and built for the aerospace applications of tomorrow.”
In defense, quantum sensors enable chemical compound detection and identification, boosting safety and resilience against environmental and tactical threats. For civilian aerospace, Rydberg sensors promise advancements in healthcare diagnostics by analyzing inhaled substances with precision, offering new possibilities for medical diagnostics in various environments.
Supporting Innovation and Inviting Collaboration
OFRN’s investment and the collaboration among Ohio’s research and industry leaders continue to strengthen Ohio’s position in quantum innovation. The Quantum Transceiver Project not only showcases the state’s research capabilities but also invites further partnership from government, academia, and industry leaders who see the strategic importance of quantum technology in defense, aerospace, and communications.
Dr. Cerny: "Our goal is to get this technology in the field, where it can start making a tangible difference for both defense and civilian applications."
As the Quantum Transceiver Project advances, OFRN, alongside its partners, is building a robust ecosystem in Ohio that accelerates technology development and drives meaningful economic impact. Through partnerships like these, OFRN is establishing Ohio as a leader in emerging technologies that can secure the future of U.S. communication and defense capabilities.
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About Ohio Federal Research Network (OFRN)
The Ohio Federal Research Network (OFRN) has the mission to stimulate Ohio’s innovation economy by building statewide university-industry research collaborations that meet the requirements of Ohio’s federal laboratories, resulting in the creation of technologies that drive job growth for the State of Ohio. The OFRN is a program managed by Parallax Advanced Research in collaboration with The Ohio State University and is funded by the Ohio Department of Higher Education.
About Parallax Advanced Research and the Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI)
Parallax Advanced Research is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit research institute that tackles global challenges through strategic partnerships with government, industry, and academia. It accelerates innovation, addresses critical global issues, and develops groundbreaking ideas with its partners. With offices in Ohio and Virginia, Parallax aims to deliver new solutions and speed them to market. In 2023, Parallax and the Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI) formed a collaborative affiliation to drive innovation and technological advancements in Ohio and for the nation. The Ohio Aerospace Institute plays a pivotal role in advancing the aerospace industry in Ohio and the nation by fostering collaborations between universities, aerospace industries, and government organizations, and managing aerospace research, education, and workforce development projects. More information on both organizations can be found at Parallax and OAI websites.
