Download

Download Full Text (107 KB)

Description

This commentary examines the current realities of quantum technologies and their implications for national security and defense. While quantum systems are often described as revolutionary, their practical military impact remains uneven and frequently overstated. This analysis reviews three key domains—quantum computing, sensing, and communications, and explains where these technologies currently outperform classical systems and where significant technical limitations remain. In particular, quantum computing is still in a “noisy, intermediate-scale” stage, meaning most applications remain experimental and dependent on advances in error correction, algorithms, and hardware. Understanding both the promise and limitations of quantum technologies is essential for shaping realistic defense investments, force design decisions, and intelligence assessments in a time of intensifying technological competition.

Document Type

Article

Topic(s)

Emerging Science and Technologies, Defense Policy, Future Strategic Concepts

Region(s)

United States

Publication Date

1-27-2026

Keywords

quantum technologies, quantum computing, quantum sensing, quantum communications, national security technology, military innovation, defense technology competition, emerging technologies, quantum information science, quantum advantage, defense modernization, strategic technology competition

Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6505-4729

Quantum Technologies, Part One: Focusing a Bit Upon Realities

Share

COinS