Quantum Radar Detection Systems Deployed in Civil Aviation for First Time

China's Civil Aviation Administration approved on January 6 the deployment of quantum radar detection systems at Beijing Daxing, Shanghai Pudong, and Shenzhen Bao'an international airports. The system was developed by the 38th Research Institute of China Electronics Technology Group (CETC).

Quantum radar's core advantage lies in detecting low-observable targets. Conventional radar has limited detection capability for small drones and stealth aircraft, while quantum radar can effectively identify these "invisible" targets by analyzing disturbances to entangled photon states.

During a three-month testing period, the quantum radar system successfully detected 100% of micro drones (wingspan under 30cm) in the test area at ranges up to 12 kilometers. Conventional radar detected only 43% of similar targets.

CETC's chief engineer stated that quantum radar deployment will significantly enhance airport airspace security, particularly in counter-drone operations. Each system costs approximately 28 million yuan to deploy.

The Civil Aviation Administration plans to expand the system to 15 major airports nationwide by end of 2028.