Quantum technologies for defense: analysis and foresight of solutions for the Army
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5902/2357797598673Keywords:
Second-generation quantum technologies, Defense, Technology foresight, Brazilian ArmyAbstract
Second-generation quantum technologies have consolidated themselves as one of the most disruptive branches of the 21st century. This article analyzes the scientific and technological production on these technologies, focusing on their application in defense. To this end, a quantitative approach was adopted based on data from the Scopus and PATENTSCOPE databases, using internationally recognized taxonomies – the Strategic Research and Industry Agenda (SRIA 2030) for Quantum Technologies report of the Quantum Flagship initiative of the European Commission, the classification system of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the taxonomy of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and the categorization of the Science and Technology Division of NATO. The results show that the scientific-technological production on quantum technologies, between 2014 and 2024, presented significant growth, especially after 2021, led by China and the USA, with modest participation from Brazil. India's scientific production grows remarkably, particularly in the defense strand. Similarities were observed in the research areas between the global and military scenarios, with emphasis on quantum computing and quantum communications. Regarding application areas, despite the low representativeness of defense, its production presents a growth trend higher than the global context, suggesting a growing interest in the sector. The quantum technology applications in defense receiving the most attention are C4ISR (command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) & decision support and hypersonic & space. Based on this analysis, the study explores prospective solutions for the Brazilian Army.
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