The Weaponization of Quantum Mechanics: Quantum Technology in Future Warfare.

Abstract

History has shown that new technologies can change the face of war significantly. Today, experiencing the speed of innovation and the emergence of technologies made possible by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, even the classical Clausewitzian theory of the nature of war can be questioned. The United States is expected to have an early advantage in the area of quantum computing. However, China is also exploring the applications of quantum technology and has already surpassed the United States in the area of quantum communication. Therefore, recognizing the importance of quantum technology and its application, developing its integration, and understanding the strategic context laid in the US National Defense Strategy 2018 (NDS 2018), it is imperative to consider quantum technology in the paradigm of operational art. Quantum technology is an emerging technology that has the potential to reshape the world and provoke a new arms race. Given that we are in the early stages of quantum technology and there exists the potential of this technology providing the United States and her allies an advantage over adversaries, this monograph analyzes quantum technology and examines its potential importance in future warfare.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 23, 2019
Accession Number
AD1083173

Entities

People

  • Rene G. Berendsen

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Autonomy
  • C4I
  • Counter WMD
  • Cyber
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Sensors
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Computer Programming
  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Cryptography
  • Information Science
  • Military Applications
  • Military Science
  • National Security
  • Quantum Computers
  • Quantum Computing
  • Quantum Cryptography
  • Quantum Information
  • Quantum Information Science
  • Quantum Key Distribution
  • Quantum Mechanics
  • United States

Readers

  • Defense Technology Research and Development.
  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Quantum Computing