Quantum Sensors: The Underestimated Quantum Technology Strategic Implications for Civil and Defence Applications

Axel Ferrazzini

Andrew Davies, Patrick Kennedy

Sarah Jacobs Gamberini, Lawrence Rubin

Helmut Leopold

Quantum technologies enable potential disruptive changes by means of quantum computing, quantum communication and cryptography, and quantum sensing for both the civil and the defence domain. Quantum technologies offer potentially enhanced capabilities for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance as well as critical advancements in information security and cryptography. This paper provides decision makers with an overview of the different quantum technology fields and main application areas. Since quantum technology has by its nature a strong dual-use character, potential use cases for the defence sector are highlighted. The level of maturity of quantum technologies in the various fields is discussed and recommendations for next steps are derived for stakeholders to shape further quantum technology development. In order to understand potential risks and ethics considerations, it is of fundamental importance to complement the R&D activities with a sound global multi-stakeholder dialogue. Thus, this paper discusses the essential factors for the design of effective governance rules and summarises recommended measures to develop and operate quantum technology-based solutions in a responsible ethical framework in the civil as well as in the defence domain following digital humanism objectives.

Axel Ferrazzini

Quantum technologies, spanning communication, sensing, computing, and cryptography, are rapidly emerging as critical paths of geopolitical competition and strategic defence innovation. Unlike traditional technological advances, quantum introduces novel capabilities that fundamentally disrupt established norms of security, intelligence, and diplomatic engagement. This strategic analysis explores the evolving quantum landscape through the dual lenses of diplomacy and geopolitics, with specific implications for defence leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders. The benefits and challenges of quantum technologies are examined from a diplomatic and geopolitical perspective to help leaders make informed strategic decisions. Leading powers now recognise quantum as a domain where technological leadership directly translates to geopolitical influence, compelling an intense race for dominance alongside new forms of multilateral diplomacy aimed at managing both risks and opportunities. Quantum technologies do not all have the same operational maturity, but technological progress is accelerating. Post-quantum cryptography demands immediate action, every encrypted communication created today may be harvested and decrypted within the decade by adversaries equipped with quantum capabilities.

Nicole Fabbri, Paolo De Natale, F. S. Cataliotti

Quantum sensing technologies can reach levels of accuracy and performance beyond the limitations of classical sensing. Their market availability could revolutionize the defence capabilities, by leading to paradigmatic shifts in the design of future systems. The project QUANDO "Quantum Technologies for Defence with Application to Optronics" focuses on the investigation of Quantum Sensing Technologies (QSTs) in Defence applications for Detection, Recognition, Identification, and Tracking (DRIT) of difficult targets. The project aims at (i) investigating QSTs for Optronics, in order to improve the DRIT of difficult optical targets, (ii) exploring potential applications of quantum technologies to Radio Frequency sensor systems, and finally (iii) realizing a laboratory proof-of-concept demonstrator of an Electro-Optical/Radio-Frequency quantum sensor. This paper describes the current results of this ongoing project.