India’s Strategic And Defence Quantum Tech Capabilities Set To Strengthen As DRDO Inaugurates Research Centre In Delhi

In a significant stride towards strengthening India’s strategic edge in emerging technologies, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Tuesday (27 May) inaugurated the Quantum Technology Research Centre (QTRC) at Metcalfe House in the national capital.

The state-of-the-art facility was inaugurated by Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO.

The QTRC is envisioned as a hub for advanced research in quantum technologies with direct defence and strategic applications.

The centre houses specialised experimental platforms designed to accelerate development in critical quantum domains, including secure communication, sensing, and post-quantum cryptography.

Key capabilities at the facility include characterisation tools for Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (VCSELs) and Distributed Feedback (DFB) Lasers, testbeds for single-photon source evaluation, setups for Micro Fabricated Alkali Vapor Cell characterisation, and experimental platforms to develop and validate Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) techniques—essential for ultra-secure communication networks in the quantum era.

These efforts are spearheaded by DRDO’s Scientific Analysis Group (SAG).

Additionally, foundational quantum technologies are being developed under the leadership of the Solid State Physics Laboratory (SSPL) at the QRTC, including:

• An Ultra-Small Atomic Clock based on Coherent Population Trapping, aimed at ensuring precise timekeeping in GNSS-denied scenarios.

• An Atomic Magnetometer leveraging optically pumped magnetometry for high-sensitivity magnetic field detection.

• Cutting-edge solid-state quantum devices and materials for future-ready defence systems.

Also Read: With Rules In Place, Inter-Services Organisations Act Now Fully In Force to Strengthen Military Integration