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.
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.
Quantum technology is an emergent area with the potential to be disruptive and ability to affect many human activities. Quantum technologies are dual-use technologies, and as such, they are the subject of interest for the defence and security industry and military and governmental actors. This report aims to review and map the possible quantum technology military applications to serve as the entry point for international peace and international security assessment, ethics research or military and governmental policy, strategy and decision making. Quantum technologies for military applications, introducing new capabilities, increasing effectiveness and improving precision lead to 'quantum warfare', wherein new military strategies, doctrines, policies and ethics should be established. This report provides a basic overview of quantum technologies under development where the expected time scale of delivery or utilisation impact are estimated. The particular applications of quantum technology for the military are described for various warfare domains (e.g., cyber, space, electronic, underwater warfare, or intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance), and related issues and challenges are articulated.
Quantum technologies are rapidly emerging as a transformative force with profound implications for critical infrastructures, national security, and global governance. Quantum computing, quantum communications, and quantum sensing promise unprecedented advances in data processing, secure communications, and environmental and infrastructure monitoring. At the same time, their disruptive potential introduces new ethical, security, and geopolitical risks, particularly for systems that underpin modern societies such as energy networks, telecommunications, finance, transportation, and defence infrastructures. This paper examines the governance of quantum technologies for critical infrastructures, moving from ethical impact assessment to the formulation of coherent national strategies. The study argues that the unique characteristics of quantum technologies — including their high degree of complexity, dual-use nature, and capacity to undermine existing cryptographic and security frameworks — require a shift from reactive regulation to anticipatory and responsible governance. Traditional regulatory approaches are insufficient to address the speed, uncertainty, and strategic relevance of quantum innovation. Instead, the paper emphasizes the need to integrate ethical impact assessment, risk analysis, and societal considerations at the earliest stages of research, development, and deployment. Ethical governance is presented not as a constraint on innovation, but as a foundational element for ensuring trust, resilience, and long-term sustainability. The analysis situates quantum governance within a broader geopolitical context, highlighting how major global actors are investing in quantum capabilities as strategic assets. This competition increases the urgency for coordinated governance frameworks that balance technological sovereignty, security, and international cooperation. Particular attention is given to the protection of critical infrastructures and the transition towards quantum-safe systems, especially in the field of cybersecurity and secure communications. Finally, the paper outlines the implications for national and European strategies, stressing the importance of multi-level governance involving governments, international organisations, industry, and research institutions. It concludes that only a holistic approach — combining ethical foresight, anticipatory governance, and strategic planning — can ensure that quantum technologies enhance societal resilience and security rather than exacerbate systemic vulnerabilities. In this sense, quantum governance becomes a central component of future national strategies for critical infrastructure protection and technological leadership.
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.
Abstract Quantum technology is an emergent and potentially disruptive discipline, with the ability to affect many human activities. Quantum technologies are dual-use technologies, and as such are of interest to the defence and security industry and military and governmental actors. This report reviews and maps the possible quantum technology military applications, serving as an entry point for international peace and security assessment, ethics research, military and governmental policy, strategy and decision making. Quantum technologies for military applications introduce new capabilities, improving effectiveness and increasing precision, thus leading to ‘quantum warfare’, wherein new military strategies, doctrines, policies and ethics should be established. This report provides a basic overview of quantum technologies under development, also estimating the expected time scale of delivery or the utilisation impact. Particular military applications of quantum technology are described for various warfare domains (e.g. land, air, space, electronic, cyber and underwater warfare and ISTAR—intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance), and related issues and challenges are articulated.
Quantum computing is a revolutionary technology that has the potential to transform various industries, including government operations, defence strategies, and national security. The chapter discusses its fundamental principles, advantages, limitations, and applications in cryptography, optimization, resource allocation, quantum sensing, and metrology. It highlights the need for quantum-resistant cryptography and post-quantum cryptographic algorithms to safeguard sensitive information. Quantum algorithms can improve decision-making processes, enhance efficiency, and address logistical challenges in defense strategy planning and disaster management. Quantum communication and secure networks are crucial for secure communication among government agencies, military units, and allied nations. Challenges include high costs, skilled personnel, and ethical and legal implications. The chapter concludes with a discussion on the future outlook of quantum computing in these sectors, emphasizing the need for continued research and investment.
Quantum computing is rapidly emerging as a transformative technological paradigm with the potential to disrupt cryptography, optimization, material science, and artificial intelligence. However, its dual-use nature introduces profound regulatory, ethical, and geopolitical challenges. This paper explores the governance landscape of quantum computing, emphasizing the need for anticipatory policy frameworks, international coordination, and responsible innovation mechanisms. It highlights risks related to cybersecurity, algorithmic inequality, and technological monopolization. The study proposes a multi-layered regulatory model integrating national strategies, global treaties, and industry self-regulation to ensure equitable and secure quantum development