Munich, 21 October 2025 – As global geopolitical tensions rise, the need for deeptech innovation and adoption to maintain strategic superiority has never been more pressing. Quantum technologies play a critical role in enhancing defence due to their potential to enhance among others communication, intelligence, navigation, and threat detection. These unparalleled advancements can provide national militaries within the European Union and defence alliances such as NATO with a significant strategic and operational edge.
Recognising this crucial moment, QBN has released its new white paper, “Quantum Technologies for Defence”, developed by and in consultation with QBN members. The paper was presented first on 3 July to NATO and handed over to NATO, EDA, EC and national Ministries of Defence and decision-makers.
Highlights
- State of Play in Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication and Quantum Sensing
- Quantum Application Readiness Timeline
- EU State of Affairs and EU Quantum Ecosystem
- Challenges and Bottlenecks on the way to Quantum Readiness
- Recommendations to NATO, the EU and the EU member states
“Geopolitical Shifts are an Opportunity for the EU, and I am glad to see, that NATO and the EU are already working on the implementation.” said Johannes Verst, CEO of QBN. “If the right choices are made today, the military can become a key driver for innovation in the quantum field – for its own benefit – and ultimately for the wider economy and society when quantum becomes even more commercially available.”
Embracing quantum technology as a strategic priority can reinforce NATO’s and the EU’s national security, economic resilience, and technological sovereignty. A coordinated and ambitious approach will ensure that European and transatlantic defence forces are equipped for the challenges of tomorrow.
QBN thanks the authors Xenia Bogomolec, Quant-X Security & Coding GmbH, Laurent Guiraud, ColibriTD Rene Kirrbach, Fraunhofer IPMS, Mila Korunovska, QBN – Quantum Business Network, Michael Marthaler, HQS Quantum Simulations, Ulrich Mans, Quantum Delta NL, Marius Schöndorf, BWI GmbH, Clare Shelley-Egan, Delft University of Technology, Johannes Verst, QBN – Quantum Business Network, and all members for their valuable contribution and insights.
Stay tuned for more updates from QBN on this topic.
Download of QBN Whitepaper “Quantum Technologies for Defence” is accessible for QBN members via the QBN Portal.
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