Implication Of Quantum Computing On National Security

Recently NITI Aayog released a strategic paper on quantum computing and its implications for national security.

About Quantum Computing

Quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in fundamentally different ways compared to classical computers.
Difference Between Classical and Quantum Computing: While classical computers use bits as the smallest unit of data (which can be either 0 or 1), quantum computers use quantum bits (qubits), which can exist in multiple states simultaneously.

About Qubits

Creation of Qubits: Qubits are created by manipulating and measuring quantum particles, which are the smallest known building blocks of the physical universe.
Types of Quantum Particles Used: Common quantum particles used for qubits include photons, electrons, trapped ions, and atoms.
Engineered Qubits: In addition to natural quantum particles, qubits can also be engineered in systems that mimic quantum behavior, such as superconducting circuits.
Need for Extreme Cooling: To effectively manipulate quantum particles, qubits must be maintained at extremely low temperatures.
- Cooling is necessary to minimize noise and prevent errors in quantum computations.
- Without extreme cooling, decoherence (loss of quantum state) occurs, leading to inaccurate results and system instability.

Core Principles of Quantum Computing

Quantum computing is based on three key principles of quantum mechanics:

Superposition: In quantum computing, a qubit can exist in a superposition of both 0 and 1 simultaneously.
- This means a qubit can represent multiple states at once, enabling quantum computers to process vast amounts of information in parallel.

Current State of Quantum Computing

NISQ Era: Quantum computing is still in its early stages, often referred to as the NISQ (Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum) era.
Advancements in Quantum Computing: Current quantum computers have limited qubits (typically 50-100) and are prone to errors.
Quantum Supremacy: In 2019, Google claimed to achieve quantum supremacy by performing a calculation in 200 seconds that would take a classical supercomputer 10,000 years.
- While this milestone is debated, it highlights the potential of quantum computing.
Microsoft’s Majorana 1 Quantum Chip
- Resilient Qubits: Uses a novel approach for greater stability.
- Improved Scalability: Advances over existing quantum platforms.
- Lower Error Rates: Enhances error correction and reduces faults.
Google’s Willow Chip: Willow enables multiple physical qubits to work together to store a single unit of quantum information, creating a built-in self-checking mechanism that detects and corrects errors in real time.

Entanglement: Entanglement is a phenomenon where two or more qubits become interconnected, such that the state of one qubit is directly related to the state of another, no matter how far apart they are.
Quantum Interference: Quantum computers use interference to amplify correct solutions and cancel out incorrect ones. By carefully manipulating qubits, quantum algorithms can guide the system toward the most probable correct answer.

Significance of Quantum Computing

Some key applications include:

Cybersecurity & Encryption: Quantum cryptography (e.g., Quantum Key Distribution) ensures ultra-secure communication.
Drug Discovery & Material Science: Quantum computers can simulate molecular and atomic interactions with high precision, accelerating the development of new drugs, materials, and chemicals.
Finance & Risk Analysis: Optimizes portfolios, detects fraud, and improves financial modeling.
Logistics & Supply Chain: Enhances route optimization, inventory management, and scheduling.
Climate Modeling: Quantum computers could simulate complex climate systems, helping researchers develop better strategies to combat climate change, better forecasting and disaster prediction.

Role of Quantum Computing in Reshaping National Security

Cryptography & Cybersecurity: Quantum computers pose a threat to public-key encryption, impacting internet security and online banking.
- Adoption of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) is essential to safeguard data from quantum attacks.

Quantum Geopolitics: The Race for Technological Dominance

United States: The U.S. quantum ecosystem is driven by strong government funding and a thriving private sector (Google, IBM, PsiQuantum).
- The National Quantum Initiative Act (2018) laid the foundation for research, workforce development, and industrial growth.
- A key focus is Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) to counter future cyber threats.
China: China follows a state-driven model with massive investments in quantum research.
- Leading institutions like University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) and Zhejiang University drive major breakthroughs.
- Researchers at Peking University have achieved large-scale quantum entanglement on an optical chip, intensifying the global quantum race.
Europe: The EU Quantum Flagship and national programs in Germany, France, Belgium, and Switzerland drive regional quantum advancements.
Other Key Players: Targeted Investments
- Canada: Specializes in quantum software.
- Japan: Focuses on specialized quantum hardware.
- Australia: Leads in quantum sensors.

PQC refers to encryption methods resistant to quantum attacks, ensuring data security in a post-quantum era.
Intelligence Gathering
- Enhances Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) by enabling large-scale interception and decryption of communications.
- Transforms espionage and counterintelligence operations with advanced data analysis capabilities.
Military Applications
- Optimises logistics, battlefield strategy, and resource allocation.
- Quantum AI enhances autonomous military drones and robotic systems.
- Topology qubits enable scalable qubit systems, aiding stealth detection and resilient control of autonomous weapons.
Economic Warfare
- Quantum decryption could compromise financial markets, banking systems, and digital payments.
- Enables large-scale intellectual property theft, escalating economic espionage.
Geopolitical Influence: Quantum dominance allows nations to shape global technology standards and international regulations.
- Advancements in topology qubits strengthen a country’s leadership in quantum technology.

Steps Countries Are Taking For National Security

Export Controls: Quantum technologies are becoming critical to national security, leading to tightened export restrictions on key components such as: Arbitrary Waveform Generators (AWGs), Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs), Microwave Components etc
- In January 2025, Europe launched a review of outward Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) in critical technologies, with quantum among the top priorities.
- Export controls are expected to intensify, shaping global supply chains and strategic alliances.
Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) Development: U.S., EU, China, India, and Japan are advancing PQC to counter quantum threats to encryption.
Quantum-Secured Communication
- China’s Micius Satellite enables secure quantum communication via entanglement-based encryption.
- Europe’s EuroQCI Project aims to create a quantum-secure network across the EU.

Key Initiatives By India In The Sphere of Quantum Computing

National Quantum Mission (NQM): The Mission aims to enhance the country’s capabilities in quantum-related science and technology.
- It focuses on four key domains or verticals, i.e. Quantum Computing, Quantum Communication, Quantum Sensing & Metrology, and Quantum Materials & Devices.
- The Mission has an outlay of Rs 6,003 crore, which is used to fund scientific and industrial research projects for eight years (2023-2031).
- It includes the establishment of four thematic hubs (T-Hubs) dedicated to the four domains or verticals.
QSim: India’s first Quantum Computer Simulator (QSim) toolkit was launched by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
- This indigenous toolkit will serve as an important educational and research tool for students and researchers in quantum computing.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Demonstration: ISRO made a breakthrough demonstration of free-space Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) over 300 m.
- The Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology underpins Quantum Communication technology that ensures unconditional data security by virtue of the principles of quantum mechanics, which is not possible with the conventional encryption systems.
Quantum Startups in India: Indian startups such as QpiAI, BosonQ Psi, and TCS Quantum Computing Lab are at the forefront of quantum innovation, advancing research and industry applications.

Challenges in Quantum Computing

Hardware Stability: Quantum bits (qubits) are highly sensitive to noise and require extreme conditions (e.g., near absolute zero temperature).
Decoherence & Error Rates: Quantum states collapse easily, leading to high error rates and the need for quantum error correction.
Scalability: Difficulties in increasing the number of stable qubits while maintaining coherence.
High Costs & Infrastructure: Requires advanced materials, specialized cooling systems, and significant financial investment.
Lack of Skilled Workforce: Quantum computing expertise is scarce, slowing development and adoption.

Way Forward for India in Quantum Computing

Strengthening Research & Development: Expand funding for National Quantum Mission (NQM) to boost domestic research.
Establish a Quantum Task Force: There is a need to monitor global advancements in quantum technologies and adapt investment strategies based on emerging breakthroughs.
Enhancing Cybersecurity & National Security: Accelerate adoption of Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) to secure critical infrastructure.
- Develop Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) networks for secure communication.
Boosting Industry & Startups: Provide incentives for quantum startups and establish Quantum Technology Parks.
- Strengthen public-private partnerships to drive commercialization.
  - Governments worldwide are increasing funding, with China ($15B), the US ($5B), Europe ($1.2B), and India ($750M) contributing to quantum advancements.
Strengthen Global Collaborations
- Deepen engagements with the U.S., EU, Japan, and Australia for technology sharing and access to advanced quantum hardware.
- Establish Technology Access Agreements for rapid adoption and scalability, focusing on innovations like topology qubits.
Strengthening Indigenous Quantum Hardware: Promote domestic quantum chip fabrication and develop a robust local supply chain to enhance self-reliance in quantum technology.

Conclusion

India’s quantum security strategy must integrate technology monitoring, research flexibility, and supply chain security while leveraging global partnerships and domestic innovation.

A proactive, multi-pronged approach will ensure national security remains resilient in the quantum era.

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