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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 applic...
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... following text maps the conceivable quantum technology applications for military, security, space and intelligence in different aspects of modern warfare, as sketched in Fig. 1. It also mentions the industrial applications which may suggest quantum technolo- gies' capabilities and performances, especially when no public information on military applications is ...
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... A promising technology for the creation of a practical gravitational eye is to use cold-atom gravimetry based on atom interferometry [21]. Cold atoms-based systems have shown themselves to be sensitive metrological tools in fundamental research [38][39][40], which has prompted research to evaluate the opportunities offered by the technology [41][42][43][44][45] and to develop portable cold atom sensors to address a number of real-world applications [46][47][48][49][50][51][52][53][54][55][56][57][58][59][60]. ...
Gravity measurements have uses in a wide range of fields including geological mapping and mine-shaft inspection. The specific application under consideration sets limits on the survey and the amount of information that can be obtained. For example, in a conventional gravity survey at the Earth’s surface a gravimeter is translated on a two-dimensional planar grid taking measurements of the vertical component of gravity. If, however, the survey points cannot be chosen so freely, for example if the gravimeter is constrained to operate in a tunnel where only a one-dimensional line of data could be taken, less information will be obtained. To address this situation, we investigate an alternative approach, in the form of an instrument which rotates around a central point measuring the gravitational potential or its radial derivative on the boundary of a sphere. The ability to record additional components of gravity by rotating the gravimeter will give more information than obtained with a single measurement traditionally taken at each point on a survey, consequently reducing ambiguities in interpretation. We term a device which measures the potential, or its radial derivatives, around the surface of a sphere a gravitational eye. In this article we explore ideas of resolution and propose a thought experiment for comparing the performance of diverse types of gravitational eye. We also discuss radial analytic continuation towards sources of gravity and the resulting resolution enhancement, before finally discussing the possibility of using cold-atom gravimetry and gradiometry to construct a gravitational eye. If realised, the gravitational eye will offer revolutionary capability enabling the maximum information to be obtained about features in all directions around it.
... The enframing puzzles provided by militarized science for quantum physics appear to be many, one into which rival militarized systems will eventually pour trillions of dollars as they look to quantum scientists to use their knowledge to build war technologies, like better gyroscopes for nuclear submarines along with better devices for detecting them as they glide through our warming oceans. 37 In a recent book John Braithwaite argues that independent universities are one important institutional idea for generating the knowledge we need to understand complex and interlinked crises such as war, pandemics and climate change. 38 The challenge, as he recognises, is to find ways to escape the integration of universities into the military-industrial complex. ...
Intellectual property and contract have been integral to the construction of an enframing paradigm of militarized science for the institution of science. The paper traces how the Manhattan project provided the U.S. with its first large-scale experience of using contracts and intellectual property to restrict the diffusion of sensitive military technology. In the following decades private law, namely contract and intellectual property, were used to bind the military, firms and universities into a system. Science, including university science finds itself in an iron military cage. The final section asks whether private law tools can help science break out of this cage.
... Humanity may create artificial life that exceeds our own cognitive capabilities. The development of sufficiently advanced quantum computing may unlock other radical transformations that change social reality in profound, revolutionary ways.69 Emergence in complex, dynamic systems runs contrary to the stable, ordered Newtonian universe on which our military paradigm and all associated theory, doctrine, and methods are based.70 ...
The entirety of human existence suggests multiple war theories and competing belief systems on what war is and how it can or cannot be exercised, even if we often are preoccupied with the current framework. Premodern societies differed from modern ones on whether humans or something divine or supernatural control the contexts and outcomes of war. Collectively, our species retains a firm appreciation of the assumed limits of what constitutes organized violence for political, social, or cultural aims, depending on the group and context. Yet in the twenty-first century, we may finally have set into motion the seeds of an unfamiliar, potentially incomprehensible, and likely transformative pathway where artificial intelligence or transhuman modifications may reveal what is called a “phantasmal transformation of war.” Complexity science explains reality and war so that earlier attempts—particularly those of the classical or natural science period and earlier prescientific attempts—are illuminated as insufficient or irrelevant outside of narrow or contextual applications. Today, Western militaries remain wedded to what is explained as a “Newtonian-style worldview” for understanding war, with select terms assimilated from complexity science and others ignored entirely. Indeed, modern military theorists assume an almost ideological devotion to what is largely a pseudo-scientific, static mode of framing war. Humans paired with certain advanced technology may also redefine war beyond previous physical domain and kinetic circumstances, including new manifestations in space, in cyberspace, and through accelerated human-machine teaming arrangements. Such novel conflict may in some applications exceed both human design and comprehension, potentially existing in planes or manifestations that are either undetectable by humans, rendered incomprehensible by select human actors, or potentially in modes that exceed the witting participation and awareness of our species.
... However, new materials, improved modeling and simulation, and more efficient propulsion devices (jet engines) have contributed to certain technological breakthroughs in hypersonic research and significantly increased the likelihood of their widespread operational use (Tirpak, 2018). Currently, China, Russia, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, India, Iran, Japan, and Australia have openly recognized the research, testing, and experimental use of hypersonic systems (Reding, Eaton, 2020), ( The Quantum Technologies (QT) group of technologies is a group of technologies that use quantum physics and related phenomena at the atomic and subatomic levels, in particular quantum entanglement and superposition (Reding, Eaton, 2020), (Reding, Lucia, Blanco, Regan, Bayliss, 2023), (Amerongen, 2021), (Krelina, 2021). These effects support significant technological advances primarily in cryptography and unbreakable encryption systems, quantum computing, precise navigation and time synchronization, sensing using ultra-sensitive sensors and sophisticated visualization, communication, and the creation of new materials. ...
... Quantum technologies can be grouped into five main overlapping groups: Quantum computing -a type of computing that does not operate according to standard mathematical algorithms, but takes advantage of quantum mechanical phenomena such as superposition, quantum entanglement, and interference (Amerongen, 2021), (Krelina, 2021); ...
... Quantum sensing and metrology is a field of knowledge about the use of quantum systems, quantum properties or phenomena to measure physical quantities with high accuracy (Reding, Eaton, 2020), (Reding, Lucia, Blanco, Regan, Bayliss, 2023), (Krelina, 2021). For example, the measurement of magnetic or gravitational fields using quantum sensing technologies is used for precise positioning, navigation, and timing synchronization in inertial high-precision navigation systems in combat platforms where the use of global satellite navigation systems such as GPS is impossible or difficult; quantum materials -materials whose properties can be explained only with reference to quantum phenomena. ...
The relevance of article is due to the fact that in the conditions of confrontation between countries different in terms of resources, strength of the army and number of weapons, military superiority over the enemy are achieved by using asymmetric and hybrid actions with using innovative high-tech weapons and C4ISR. The search for innovative approaches to the management of troops, new methods of using both traditional types of weapons and new ones created onunconventional physical principles, the introduction of the emerging technologies is an urgent need for the development of the Ukraine defense capabilities - the key to technological superiority in modern warfare. Today, most of the developed countries pay considerable attention to scientific research on the emerging and disruptive technologies, strive to maintain advantages in this field. Based on this, the research of promising scientific and technical trends and determining the potential of their application in military affairs is an important scientific and practical tasks that must be solved. The leading approach to solving this problematic issue is the use of the results of the analysis of scientific publications, reports of leading international security institutions, the use of statistical methods of scientometric and patent analysis, as well as the assessment of the level of attention or expectations. The article presents the results of a systematic analysis of existing technological trends, the most significant new and breakthrough technologies, as well as an assessment of their impact on the sphere of security and defense. A certain author's view on the possibilities of using such technologies is offered. The materials of the article are of practical significance for specialists who are responsible for the formation of directions of scientific and scientific-technical activity, the introduction of innovations and the emerging technologies in the activities of the defense-industrial complex.
... This first revolution resulted in nuclear weapons and energy,then, the classical computer gained a significant role. The second quantum revolution "is characterized by manipulating and controlling individual quantum systems (such as atoms, ions, electrons, photons, molecules or various quasiparticles), allowing to reach the standard quantum limit; that is, the limit to measurement accuracy at quantum scales" ( [28], 2). Therefore, QT "is an emerging field of physics and engineering based on quantum-mechanical properties-especially quantum entanglement, quantum superposition and quantum tunnelling-applied to individual quantum systems, and their utilization for practical applications" ([28], 3; see also [29]). ...
... This refers to the exchange of information across networks that use optical fiber or free-space channels. In most cases, quantum communication is realized using a photon as the quantum information carrier ( [28], 11). The main applications are quantum networking (transmitting quantum information across various channels), quantum key distribution (the diffusion of security systems in communications much more effective and safer than the current ones), and post-quantum cryptography (encryption techniques that should resist future quantum computer attacks). ...
This paper develops a hermeneutic technology assessment of quantum technologies. It offers a “vision assessment” of quantum technologies that can eventually lead to socio-ethical analysis. Section 2 describes this methodological approach and in particular the concept of the hermeneutic circle applied to technology. Section 3 gives a generic overview of quantum technologies and their impacts. Sections 4 and 5 apply the hermeneutic technology assessment approach to the study of quantum technologies. Section 5 proposes distinguishing three levels in the analysis of the creation and communication of social meanings to quantum technologies: (a) fictions, (b) popularization, and (c) scientific journalism. Section 6 analyzes the results and defines some lines of action to increase social acceptance and trust in quantum technologies. The aim of this paper is to contribute to the debate on quantum technologies by enhancing the reflection on them and their potential, as well as illustrating the complexity of technological innovation and the need to shape it.
... The unconditional security offered by the QKD and other quantum encryption techniques is an effective countermeasure to protect against these threats. Furthermore, quantum technologies including communications, computing, and sensing are offering a set of beneficial tools and mechanisms for defense and military applications [175]. For instance, quantum sensors can be used to detect submarines and stealth aircraft [176]. ...
Quantum technologies are increasingly recognized as groundbreaking advancements set to redefine the landscape of computing, communications, and sensing by leveraging quantum phenomena, like entanglement and teleportation. Quantum technologies offer an interesting set of advantages such as unconditional security, large communications capacity, unparalleled computational speed, and ultra-precise sensing capabilities. However, their global deployment faces challenges related to communication ranges and geographical boundaries. Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) have emerged as a potential remedy for these challenges through providing free-space quantum links to circumvent the exponential losses inherent in fiber optics. Through the utilization of free-space optical (FSO) and Li-Fi links, NTNs provide an effective method for transmitting quantum states over extensive distances. This paper delves into the dynamic interplay between quantum technologies and NTNs to unveil their synergistic potential. We also investigate their integration challenges and the potential solutions to foster a symbiotic convergence of quantum and NTN functionalities while identifying avenues for enhanced interoperability. Specifically, quantum communication over NTNs imposes challenges in communication channel reliability, network flexibility, and scalability. To enhance channel reliability, multicarrier transmission techniques and spatial diversity strategies, including quantum MIMO (q-MIMO) transmission schemes, can be employed. Introducing the software defined networking (SDN) model facilitates flexible network configurations. In NTN-based quantum infrastructure, technologies like trusted relays, measurement device independent (MDI), and quantum repeaters can address scalability concerns efficiently. This paper not only offers useful insights into the mutual advantages but also presents future research directions, aiming to inspire additional studies and advance this interdisciplinary collaboration.
... Quantum technology [47] has vast potential applications with a significant impact on humanity, similar to the transistor. However, the underlying science is complex, and developing low TRL quantum technology is expensive and requires targeted investment. ...
The author proposes a novel methodology to overcome the outstanding challenges in accurately assessing technology readiness for final real-world applications. The Engineering Severity Level (ESL) is a conceptual methodology that provides a simple, standardised, and quantitative method for assessing technology suitability in relation to real-world environments.It is a standalone assessment concept that offers advantages in generating an evidence base for accurate technology readiness assessment and early identification of developmental roadblocks derived from real-world requirements. Moreover, the methodology can be applied as a universal basis to enhance the Technical Readiness Level (TRL) classification assessment criteria. The benefits are exemplified in assessing quantum technologies for Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) requirements in Defence applications.
... However, this extraordinary invention also has a dark side. Current cryptosystems, financial systems, and security mechanisms will become obsolete in front of powerful quantum computers, this event is referred to as Q-Day, signifying the moment when quantum machines breach prevailing encryption protocols [8], [9]. Quantum technology will apply several vital technologies, such as quantum AI, quantum internet, quantum cryptography, quantum super computing, quantum simulation, etc. ...
... Furthermore, the integration of a quantum internet could provide the military metaverse with the means to ensure exceedingly secure communication channels. Quantum cryptography, quantum Internet, and quantum clocks, QML for detecting drones, could be harnessed within a military metaverse setting [9]. Moreover, quantum-enabled metaverses have the potential to serve in simulating battlefield environments, devising strategic plans, advancing weaponry, and researching new materials for military objectives [190], [191], [192]. ...
... Significant further research is imperative for qubit error correction. Due to the inherent quantum principle of "no cloning," the process of error correction for qubits presents intricate complexities as opposed to error correction for classical bits [9]. ...
Over the last few decades, technology has been improving dramatically and consequently transformed the standard of living and socio-economic conditions. The entire process will revolutionize when the next advanced technologies will be fully functional. Advanced technologies like the metaverse, Web 3.0, and others necessitate high computing power, invincible security, and ultra-fast internet. Despite increasing demand, traditional computing methods have limitations and are not capable of satisfying the requirements. To solve these tribulations, quantum computing is shining a light of hope. This survey aims to analyze the methodology, constraints, and potential of integrating quantum computing with the metaverse. We begin with an overview of quantum computing and related terms. We then investigate the feasibility of applying quantum-enabled technologies to enhance the metaverse. Furthermore, this survey also considers middleware for seamless conversion between traditional and quantum computing with the metaverse. In the subsequent phase of this survey, our objective is to discern and delineate the prospective application domains for the quantum-enabled metaverse. In essence, the difficulties of integrating quantum computing with the metaverse, present research approaches, and open research issues with consequences for additional in-depth investigations are highlighted.
... From the survey carried out in the previous section, we can infer that the TRL of UQKD is signifcantly lower than the TRL of QKD applications in fber/satellite links, which is assumed close to 7 ("system prototyping demonstration in an operational environment") [116]. Nevertheless, some evolution trends in the path towards the practical adoption of UQKD can be identifed. ...
The growing importance of underwater networks (UNs) in mission-critical activities at sea enforces the need for secure underwater communications (UCs). Classical encryption techniques can be used to achieve secure data exchange in UNs. However, the advent of quantum computing will pose threats to classical cryptography, thus challenging UCs. Currently, underwater cryptosystems mostly adopt symmetric ciphers, which are considered computationally quantum robust but pose the challenge of distributing the secret key upfront. Post-quantum public-key (PQPK) protocols promise to overcome the key distribution problem. The security of PQPK protocols, however, only relies on the assumed computational complexity of some underlying mathematical problems. Moreover, the use of resource-hungry PQPK algorithms in resource-constrained environments such as UNs can require nontrivial hardware/software optimization efforts. An alternative approach is underwater quantum key distribution (QKD), which promises unconditional security built upon the physical principles of quantum mechanics (QM). This tutorial provides a basic introduction to free-space underwater QKD (UQKD). At first, the basic concepts of QKD are presented, based on a fully worked out QKD example. A thorough state-of-the-art analysis of UQKD is carried out. The paper subsequently provides a theoretical analysis of the QKD performance through free-space underwater channels and its dependence on the key optical parameters of the system and seawater. Finally, open challenges, points of strength, and perspectives of UQKD are identified and discussed.
... Essentially, there are four main QT categories: quantum communication, quantum computing, quantum metrology and sensing (Thew, 2019). Most significantly, these QT fields have become a key enabler of several emerging technologies, with applications in sports (Torgler, 2020), biology (Marais et al., 2018), chemistry (Lanyon et al., 2010;Deglmann et al., 2015), nuclear physics (Carlson et al., 2015, chemical engineering (Ajagekar and You, 2022), business and finance (Orús et al., 2019;Aljaafari, 2023), education (Fox et al., 2020), healthcare (Ur Rasool et al., 2023), agriculture (Wang and Blagrave, 2021), cybersecurity and defense (Krelina, 2021) and, surprisingly, the social sciences and humanities, for instance, psychology (Busemeyer and Wang, 2015). Therefore, this broad influence of QT signals that, in addition to being a fundamental technological enabler that could impact every sector (Jaeger, 2018), it has significant potential to revolutionize how countries conduct international relations and science diplomacy. ...
The state-of-the-art quantum technologies leverage the unique principles of quantum mechanics, which include quantization, uncertainty principle, interference, entanglement and decoherence, to produce useful devices and scientific advancements not possible with classical technologies. As a result, quantum technologies, in particular, offer specific advantages that make communications networks secure and unbreakable and devices with unprecedented levels of accuracy, responsiveness, reliability, scalability and efficiency than classical emerging technologies. These capabilities can contribute significantly to addressing energy, agriculture, climate change, national security, healthcare, education and economic growth challenges. Unfortunately, these developments in these areas have not been evenly distributed between the Global North and the Global South, inadvertently creating a societal and economic gap. Closing this gap is critical to creating a more inclusive and sustainable future for all, thus delivering key sustainable goals. Therefore, to close this gap, this article proposes a quantum diplomacy framework as a means to deliver science diplomacy. Moreover, we discuss how emerging quantum technologies could profoundly impact all 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. We consider this work a timely and vital intervention to prevent the gap from increasing.
