Zero Point Motion: Photonic Inertial Sensors for Europe’s Navigation Sovereignty

Zero Point Motion Ltd is a Bristol-based deep-tech startup pioneering ultra-sensitive inertial sensors by fusing silicon photonics with MEMS technology[1][2]. Founded in 2020 by physicist Dr. Ying Lia Li (Imperial College and UCL alumnus), the company emerged from university research on optomechanical sensors[3][4]. In early 2025 it closed a £4M pre-Series A funding round to commercialize its next-generation accelerometers and gyroscopes[5][2]. Its novel approach – leveraging optical resonators for readout – yields inertial devices up to 100× more sensitive than legacy MEMS units[1][6]. Zero Point Motion’s technology is explicitly aimed at “transforming defence, space exploration, and autonomous systems” by enabling precise navigation even when GPS is unavailable[7][2]. In this report we analyze ZPM through the lens of European strategic autonomy and NATO interoperability. We evaluate how its photonic-based inertial sensors could strengthen allied position/navigation/time (PNT) capabilities and reduce dependence on non-allied suppliers (particularly Chinese or U.S. navigation components). We also examine its R&D origins, partnerships, and program involvement in European and transatlantic innovation frameworks. The goal is to assess ZPM’s potential contribution to a resilient European defense industrial base and NATO multi-domain operations, identifying both its existing strengths and the gaps that must be addressed for full strategic impact.