(Interview with Hideki Tomoshige)
What are quantum technologies, and how do their key differences from classical computers make them so important, particularly in the context of national security?
Quantum technologies draw on the principles of quantum mechanics—the same science behind lasers, atomic clocks, and transistors. The newer field of quantum information science and technology focuses on devices that can generate, control, and measure quantum states, especially superposition and entanglement. At its core, this field seeks to use the fundamental laws of quantum mechanics to enable new paradigms in computing, networking, and sensing. For the United States and its partners, the stakes are high: these technologies could become essential tools across scientific, industrial, and national security domains.
In quantum computing, qubits replace ordinary bits, enabling some calculations to be performed with far greater power and precision. For example, a joint team from IBM, the Cleveland Clinic, and RIKEN used a quantum computer and traditional high‑performance computing to simulate protein complexes 40 times as large as had previously been possible, while improving accuracy by up to 210 times. In that case, the quantum computer handled portions of the calculation involving strong electronic correlations, which are difficult for high‑performance computing alone. Advances at this scale and level of precision could open new approaches in drug discovery, battery materials, and defense‑related materials research.
Quantum technology could also affect the information advantages that underpin modern military operations. Secured networks, advanced sensing, and new computing capabilities could help militaries protect critical communications, detect and interpret threats sooner, and turn reliable information into faster, better‑informed decisions for commanders and forces in the field.
The U.S. government and private companies are working together to develop and deploy quantum applications for these military uses. One example is quantum navigation, which can provide precise, reliable geolocation without relying on GPS, making it less vulnerable to jamming or spoofing. Executive Order 14413 directs the Department of Defense and NASA to field quantum sensors by 2028 for GPS‑independent navigation, space‑based detection of underground infrastructure, and other use cases. In parallel, the Departments of Energy and Defense through the Genesis Mission plan to apply artificial intelligence to accelerate the transition of quantum sensors from research to deployment.
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