Study urges UK defence sector to exploit quantum computing
Possibilities offered by AI and quantum computers need to be more fully embraced by the UK armed forces, according to a study released on 13 July by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl).
Research, undertaken by Dstl on behalf of the MoD in collaboration with UK Strategic Command, concluded that ‘embracing quantum technology now could lead to the enhanced pace, precision and pre-emption of decision making by military commanders’, Dstl announced.
In particular, military users could apply neural net-based quantum information processing to control systems (in aircraft, missiles, fire control and defensive systems); sensor data processing such as data fusion, navigation, resolving signals in noise, interference and jamming; and a range of other services and functions such as AI situational understanding.
The report is now open for input and comment from the defence industry and academia. After review, and subject to funding, a benchmark exercise could commence during 2020.
‘If benchmarking confirms the review’s findings, an in service initial operating capability could be realised as soon as 2025,’ Dstl noted.
‘This would help build quantum expertise in MoD and ensure an organisation [that is] “quantum-ready” for the future.’
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
More from Digital Battlespace
-
![Airbus launches final CSO observation satellite for French Armed Forces]()
Airbus launches final CSO observation satellite for French Armed Forces
Airbus was awarded the Composante Spatiale Optique (CSO) contract at the end of 2010. This included an option for a third satellite, which was activated after Germany joined the programme in 2015.
-
![Intelligence advantage: How real-time GEOINT is reshaping military decision-making]()
Intelligence advantage: How real-time GEOINT is reshaping military decision-making
In today’s contested operational environment, adaptability is key. The new Geospatial-Intelligence as a Service (GEO IaaS) solution from Fujitsu and MAIAR empowers militaries by enabling intelligence advantage, combining advanced technology with human expertise to deliver actionable insights.
-
![Israel sets up new department to boost development of AI and autonomy]()
Israel sets up new department to boost development of AI and autonomy
Israel will continue to develop autonomy for its weapons and platforms as it brings together defence personnel, academia and industry.
-
![Clavister contracted to supply cyber protection for CV90s]()
Clavister contracted to supply cyber protection for CV90s
Clavister CyberArmour, an integrated defence cybersecurity system, will be used on BAE Systems Hägglunds’ CV90 platform in deployments with a Scandinavian country, as well as in an eastern European nation.
-
![Lockheed Martin completes tactical satellite demonstration and prepares for launch]()
Lockheed Martin completes tactical satellite demonstration and prepares for launch
The tactical satellite (TacSat) is an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) system and will participate in exercises in 2025.
-
![AUSA 2024: General Micro Systems adds four new products to the X9 Spider family]()
AUSA 2024: General Micro Systems adds four new products to the X9 Spider family
The airborne three-domain, the two ground-based and the ¼ ATR OpenVPX-based cross-domain systems were engineered to provide real-time security across multi-domain operations.
