Quantum technology is developing rapidly and offers new possibilities for detection and monitoring at sea. Within the North Sea Infrastructure Protection Programme (PBNI), it is being explored how this technology can contribute to a better and more complete picture of activities in the North Sea. A recent meeting in Rotterdam marked an important step from experiment towards future perspective.
What is quantum sensing?
Quantum sensing uses special properties of quantum mechanics to perform extremely sensitive measurements. Whereas quantum computers aim to shield influence from the outside as much as possible, quantum sensors instead make use of those influences. By exposing sensors in a controlled way to their environment and measuring the reactions precisely, very small changes can be observed that remain invisible to classical sensors. Examples include subtle variations in magnetic or electric fields, pressure, temperature, or motion. This offers opportunities for more accurate and reliable monitoring—especially in a dynamic and complex environment such as the North Sea.
Collaboration around quantum technology
On 10 December 2025, staff from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, Rijkswaterstaat, the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA), and other partners met in Rotterdam. The objective of the meeting was to explore how quantum technology can help improve detection and interpretation in the North Sea.
The meeting took place within the framework of an assignment the HvA is carrying out for PBNI. This aligns with the Imaging – Improving detection and interpretation at the North Sea action line. The HvA is developing prototypes of quantum sensors that can, among other things, help detect so-called dark vessels—ships that evade regular monitoring systems.
Rijkswaterstaat is guiding the pilot via the Rijkswaterstaat North Sea Connectivity Fieldlab (RFCN). The RFCN acts as the project manager, connects involved parties, and advises the ministry on performance, applicability, and possible scaling up.
Insights from the demonstration
During the meeting, knowledge and experiences were shared, and future steps in the experiment were discussed. The demonstration of the quantum sensors made clear what is already possible, as well as which development points remain. For example, further scaling up is needed, and cooperation between different types of sensors is essential to produce robust and usable information. Additionally, converting raw measurement data into concrete, operational insights requires attention. The RFCN emphasized the importance of experimenting in a realistic context: only by testing technology in practice can data, systems, and work processes be properly aligned.
Opportunities for the North Sea and beyond
Quantum technology offers the Netherlands significant opportunities to better tackle societal challenges. From more accurate flood predictions to better understanding the stability and composition of dikes, from safer shipping to more effective protection of vital infrastructure at sea.
For the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, this means not only investing in technological innovation but also strengthening collaboration with other ministries, knowledge institutions, and market parties. With pilots such as this one, the Netherlands is taking steps toward a safer, smarter, and more sustainable use of the North Sea—and continues to be internationally at the forefront of applying quantum technology.