4 days ago

Quantum Race Targets Secure Communications on Tomorrow’s Battlefield

Modern armies use computers, satellites and drones to make decisions quickly.

This connected system is sometimes called a digital kill chain.

Enemies could try to steal messages, jam signals or send false navigation information.

Quantum computers might one day break some of the codes used to protect military data.

Another technology, called Quantum Key Distribution, could help detect when someone tries to listen in.

Quantum sensors might also help military vehicles navigate without satellite signals.

China and the United States are competing in these areas.

India is developing its own systems, including technology tested by the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

Key facts

Core vulnerability: Military communications, navigation signals, frequencies and encrypted networks can be intercepted, jammed, spoofed or targeted.
Quantum computing risk: Quantum computing could eventually threaten many forms of encryption used today.
Quantum Key Distribution: QKD distributes encryption keys and can reveal interception attempts by detecting disturbances in quantum information.
Quantum sensing: Quantum sensors could support precise navigation without relying on vulnerable satellite signals.
China: China has invested heavily in quantum communications and sensing research.
United States: The United States is pursuing quantum technologies for navigation, timing and military sensing.
India: The Defence Research and Development Organisation has conducted field trials of indigenous quantum communication technologies for strategic networks.

wionews.com · 4 days ago