Two British defense technology companies, Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC) and QinetiQ, have just proven that quantum computing can be used to detect weaknesses in complex military communication systems, which is an important step forward in bringing this technology from the laboratory to practical application.
In recent tests, the research team used OQC's Toshiko superconductive quantum computer through a secure cloud interface to analyze military communication networks. The focus of the study is Mobile Ad-Hoc Network (MANET), a type of network that does not require fixed infrastructure, often used in battlefields or disaster relief operations, where units have to maintain communication without broadcasting towers or transmission cables.
By running simulations on a quantum platform, scientists can accurately identify "key nodes", which are key connection points that, if attacked or interrupted, would collapse the entire communication network.
The ability to identify these weaknesses early is considered to be of great significance in strengthening the ability to combat interference, cyber attacks and physical sabotage.
According to companies, in addition to the field of communication, quantum technology can also support military logistics planning and making decisions in real time in high-pressure situations.
This is especially important in modern campaigns, where information processing speed can determine success or failure.
The cooperation between OQC and QinetiQ reflects the increasingly prominent role of the United Kingdom in the global race to commercialize quantum computing.
Businesses in this field believe that quantum technology is beginning to address specific defense challenges, instead of just existing as a tool for theoretical research.
Within the framework of expanding the application, OQC is deploying security data centers in the UK and internationally, providing access to quantum platforms for government agencies and businesses. This is seen as a step to create a quantum technology ecosystem serving both civilian and defense purposes.
OQC CEO, Gerald Mullally, said the project is clear evidence of the actual operating value of quantum computing.
According to him, the cooperation has shown that quantum systems can be deployed today to address challenges that directly affect defense capabilities.
Experts believe that although technology is still developing, such tests show that quantum computing is moving rapidly from the testing phase to practical application, and may become a game changer in the future military security field.
