Quantum Technologies and NATO: Securing the Alliance’s Technological Edge in an Era of Strategic Competition

Abstract

Quantum technologies are rapidly moving from scientific research into the arenas of commercialisation and strategic competition, with significant implications for defence and security. While their full military impact may unfold over time, developments in quantum sensing, computing, and communications are already shaping national strategies, industrial ecosystems, and future capability planning. The growing competition among major technological powers highlights the need to act on both the opportunities and risks associated with quantum technologies.

Quantum technologies have the potential to enhance military capabilities across domains, from resilient positioning, navigation, and timing to advanced sensing, computing, and secure communications. At the same time, they introduce new vulnerabilities, including risks to current cryptographic systems, supply chains, and technological dependencies. For NATO, the debate is therefore no longer whether quantum technologies matter, but how quickly the Alliance can adopt, operationalise, and secure them before strategic competitors gain asymmetric advantages.

This article argues that NATO must pursue a two-track approach: first, fostering quantum innovation, experimentation, and operational adoption across the Alliance; and second, protecting its technological edge, supply chains, critical infrastructure, and security interests against emerging quantum-enabled threats. Achieving a quantum-ready Alliance will require close cooperation among Allies, industry, academia, and NATO entities to translate technological progress into secure and operationally relevant capabilities.