Diamond-based quantum sensors in defence and security applications

Many quantum technologies are dual-use technologies that can introduce new capabilities to defence and security-related applications or increase their effectiveness. In particular, diamond-based quantum sensors have great potential due to the high robustness of this material in conjunction with quantum effects accessible at room temperature. The negatively charged nitrogen vacancy centre (NV-), an atomic defect within the diamond matrix, carries an electron spin that can be actively addressed and read-out via optical and electrical means at room temperature. This electron spin is highly sensitive to external magnetic fields, temperature, and pressure and thus well-suited for quantum sensing in defence and security.
Nowadays, diamond is reliably produced by means of chemical vapour deposition, allowing for tailored sensor elements, such as with oriented NV centres in layers and in microstructures that are highly interesting for vector magnetometry. Sensitive magnetometry is useful in global magnetic navigation, detecting metallic objects like submarines, human-machine interfaces and more. Apart from that, radiofrequency signals are detected in real-time with GHz spectral coverage in radar analysis. Recently, the use of these diamond-based quantum sensing technologies for side-channel attacks has come into focus, for example, to gather information on implementation of algorithms for cryptosystems. These technologies are introduced along with the fabrication of the underlying diamond sensor element.