Here, we will put the spotlight on a recent report rolled out by Congressional Research Service. And, in the report, the research committee highlighted that there are three applications of quantum technology that could be key to the military and DOD in particular (Department in Defense).
Now, first, let us look at the key concepts of the term “Quantum Computing,” which is the fundamental building block of the larger field called “Quantum Technology.”
Basics of Quantum Computing
The first facet we need to learn about quantum computing is the fact that it is directly related to quantum physics. The development of this field of technology primarily depends on the evolution of research in quantum physics. Quantum computing would be very different from the traditional computation theory that has been going since Newton’s time. The main differential fact between traditional computational theory and the new theory of quantum computing is the use of something called “qubits.” In traditional computational theory, we use deterministic bits, i.e., 0 and 1. However, it is not possible when we bring quantum mechanics into the picture as nothing is determined there (please read about the Heisenberg uncertainty principle to understand better). Hence, we use a new set of bits called “qubits.”
Military Applications of Quantum Computing
Now, the technological implications of quantum computational theory can be divided into different groups and are layered into different aspects. To put it into simple terms, quantum computing, if developed into a proper model, would have a direct effect on mainstream areas of the military. In particular, the concept can aid in encryption, military sensing, communication, appropriations, and authorizations. And as far as the congressional point of view is concerned, they have a deep interest in authorization and appropriation applications of Quantum technology (a technology based on quantum computational theory).
Now, a recent report has arrived on the internet. And apparently, it has been rolled out by a group of scientific advisors working for DSB and DOD parts of the government in which they have put forward their theories for the key applications in which the principles of quantum computing can be adopted. In particular, DOD is “interested” in three key military uses of quantum technology. And they are as follows: quantum computers, quantum communications, and quantum sensing. However, it must be stated that DSB (an acronym for Defense Science Board) has ruled out that another application called “quantum radar” would provide any transcendental benefits. In theory, “quantum radar” was a hypothesis put forward through research in quantum computing that such a radar would capable of accurately identify all advanced aerial objects. The objects include all stealth, aircraft, or something called “low observables.” However, the military has ruled out whether such a system would be better than the technology they possess.
Of course, there are a lot of unfathomable implications, foreseen or unforeseen, of quantum technology. However, what is key here is the evolution of quantum computational theory, which depends a lot on quantum mechanics, which is profound, but unfortunately, it poses more questions than answers.
Read Official Blog Post – Spotlight on Military Uses of Quantum Computing
