Quantum technologies Lab

The laboratory, under the supervision of Dr. Massimiliano Proietti, conducts research across various areas of quantum technology, ranging from quantum multidomain networks to quantum sensing for position, navigation, and timing (PNT) and quantum imaging. It also plays an active role in many national and international projects as well as in relevant standardization bodies.

This research area, led by Dr. Carlo Liorni, focuses on quantum communication networks spanning multiple physical domains (terrestrial, free space, satellites). Quantum multidomain networks are being deployed worldwide to interconnect quantum devices and processors, enabling enhanced sensing capabilities, scaling up computing power, and establishing secure communication infrastructures thanks to quantum key distribution (QKD) and other cryptographic primitives.

What we do

• At the physical layer, we develop QKD systems (HW and SW) in fiber and free space. This includes critical components and software such as quantum random number generators, pointing and tracking mechanisms, quantum light sources and efficient post-processing.
• At the network layer, we integrate quantum and post-quantum solutions through custom key management systems. We deploy QKD networks over telecom fibers such as the Rome Quantum Metropolitan Area Network.
• Study and implement characterization techniques and countermeasures against quantum hacking on QKD systems.

This research area, led by Dr. Gianmaria Milani, focuses on developing next-generation technologies that leverage atomic and quantum phenomena—such as atomic coherence and interference, laser cooling and trapping—to achieve highly precise and resilient navigation and timing capabilities. These activities aim to create sensors that can operate independently of traditional GPS signals, providing accurate positioning and timing in GPS-free environments such as air, maritime and underwater environments, while at the same time enhancing deep space navigation, communication synchronization and multi-static radars.

What we do

• Develop compact atomic clocks based on cold atoms or optical transitions for high accuracy, long term stability and reduced SWaP.
• Develop quantum-based Inertial Measurement Unit’s (INS) building blocks such as Quantum-enhanced Fiber Optical Gyroscopes (FOG) and Quantum accelerometers.
• Study and implement miniaturization solutions for prototypes integration.

This research area, led by Dr. Alessia Suprano, focuses on the development of advanced imaging technologies capable of delivering superior performance in degraded visual environments and covert conditions, paving the way for the next generation of detection and surveillance systems. These technologies play a crucial role in improving situational awareness and information gathering across a wide range of sectors, including airborne, land, naval, and space platforms.

What we do

• We study and develop quantum imaging solutions based on quantum entanglement, which exploit the natural covertness of single-photon-level illumination and quantum correlations to improve performance in terms of resolution and coverage.
• We design and implement LiDAR systems that use state-of-the-art single-photon detectors to enable non-line-of-sight imaging, allowing vision around corners, behind obstacles or obscurants.

This research area, led by Dr. Federico Grasselli, aims at developing the theoretical tools required by the activities carried out in the other research areas, leveraging a solid expertise in quantum optics, quantum information theory, and software modelling. Moreover, the research area explores novel approaches and techniques in quantum cryptography, QKD security, quantum network simulation and quantum imaging.

What we do

• We develop testing and certification methods for assessing the security of QKD systems and components.
• We develop and implement novel cryptographic applications beyond QKD.
• We prepare for the Quantum Internet with advanced quantum network simulations and network management software.

2025 conference contributions

• ETSI/IQC Quantum Safe Cryptography Conference 2025 – “Comparing practical Quantum Digital Signatures”
• QCrypt 2025 – “IT-secure practical Quantum Digital Signatures”
• Conference on Lasers and Electro-Optics Europe & European Quantum Electronics Conference (CLEO/Europe-EQEC) - “Quantum Ghost Imaging of remote targets with novel SPAD technology”
• Quantum 2.0 – “Quantum Ghost Imaging of remote targets with a SPAD camera”
• Quantum 2.0 – “Path towards single photon detection at the mid-infrared wavelengths at room temperature”
• Advanced Photon Counting Techniques XIX – “Quantum imaging with undetected photons of non-transmissive target”
• ICOLS 2025 – “Progress on cold-atoms based quantum atomic clocks at Leonardo Innovation Hub”
• Ares 2025 - International Conference on Availability, Reliability and Security – “Quantum Security Mechanisms for Defense Applications”
• MILCOM 2025 – “Advances in Quantum Technologies for Defense: Opportunities and Security Challenges”
• SPIE Photonics 2025 – “The Rome Quantum Metropolitan Area Network and the EuroQCI program”
• SPIE Sensors + Imaging 2025 – “Effect of relay surface calibration on reconstruction capabilities of SPAD array-based non-line-of-sight imaging systems”

 Media

• Leonardo’s plans: faster, energy-efficient AI
• When quantum mechanics becomes macroscopic: interview with Massimiliano Dispenza
• The tiny world of quanta: a journey into quantum mechanics
• Science fiction is science: now we can see beyond walls
• Quantum technologies to see the invisible and navigate without satellites
• How Quantum Technologies will change our future
• Leonardo Innovation Award, a “factory” of ideas and patents