Quantum Technologies, Part Two: Recognizing Risks and Threats to National Security and Defense
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Description
This Strategic Insights article assesses the spectrum of risks and threats that quantum technologies pose to national security and defense. It explores near-, intermediate-, and long-term hazards associated with quantum computing, sensing, and communications—including strategic surprise in niche applications, a cryptographic transition gap, and long-term disruptions in cryptography, optimization, and simulation that may affect weapon design cycles and strategic stability. The piece also identifies biological domain risks arising from quantum-enabled molecular discovery, quantum sensing, and data security, and offers policy recommendations for realistic defense postures, governance, doctrine, and supply chain security to ensure preparedness without succumbing to quantum mythology.
Document Type
Article
Topic(s)
Defense Policy, Emerging Science and Technologies, National Security
Publication Date
2-4-2026
Keywords
quantum technologies national security, quantum risks and threats, quantum defense policy, quantum computing and cryptography, quantum sensing military applications, quantum dual-use technologies, cryptographic transition gap, quantum supply chain securtity, quantum and biological risk convergence, quantum governance and oversight
Recommended Citation
Giordano, James, "Quantum Technologies, Part Two: Recognizing Risks and Threats to National Security and Defense" (2026). Strategic Insights. 2.
https://digitalcommons.ndu.edu/strategic-insights/2