Yes, the technology is real; quantum magnetometry has been a field of research for major powers since the 1950s, and there is nothing new or secret about it. Whether the US has actually used this technology or not, we cannot say for sure, but the technology is real.

What is Quantum magnetometry

Quantum magnetometry is a high-precision sensing field that uses quantum mechanical properties—such as atomic spin states, superposition, and entanglement—to detect and measure magnetic fields.

Unlike classical sensors that rely on bulk electromagnetic properties, quantum magnetometers can achieve sensitivities in the femtotesla range (
T), allowing them to detect the tiniest magnetic signatures, including those from human brain activity or deep mineral deposits.

The United States, China, and Russia are currently locked in a "quantum arms race" to operationalize quantum magnetometry for strategic military advantages, particularly in undersea warfare and GPS-denied navigation.

United States: The U.S. model relies on a mix of government agencies (DARPA, NIST) and private giants like IBM and Google. A major focus is the Quantum Transition Acceleration program, which aims to field sensors for the armed services to counter GPS jamming and spoofing.

China: Beijing has prioritized quantum sensing for detecting stealth assets. In early 2026, researchers reported testing drone-mounted quantum sensors capable of identifying tiny magnetic disturbances from submarines. They also recently unveiled a Cubicle-sized SQUID-based gravity detector that they claim can spot 18,000-ton Ohio-class submarines.

Russia: While less publicly vocal about specific magnetometer products, Russia remains a key player in quantum R&D. Their 2025 "Quantum World Tour" highlight and recent successful quantum-secured satellite tests with China signal a strategic alliance to bypass Western-controlled infrastructure.