Europe's quantum moment: new alliances for innovative defense!

Europe's quantum moment: new alliances for innovative defense!

In today's world, in which technological innovations such as mushrooms sprout out of the ground, Europe faces a considerable challenge: The strengthening of its military and economic competitiveness is essential in order to keep a) global, b) to safeguard one's own security interests and finally not to lose the technological connection to the leading nations. So emphasizes Korea Times that the United States under Defense Minister Pete Hegseth will take its focus from the security of Europe. These are alarming news for the Europeans who have to take courageous steps into the future.

A very hot iron is quantum computing technology, which not only revolutionized the way we could process information, but also promises decisive advantages in military applications. Various quantum technologies such as quantum sensors and cryptography are already reality and improve military operations and nuclear deterrence. In order to counter the challenges of the digital world, in particular the cyber attacks on critical infrastructures, Europe and its states have to develop new alliances in the field of quantum technology.

The quantum revolution in Europe

The EU has already made some progress in quantum technology, but remains behind its own requirements. The [Quantum Europe Strategy] (https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/library/quantum-europe strategy) describes the goal of developing Europe into a real quantum power. This strategy relies on five interconnected areas: promotion of research and innovation, structure of quantum infrastructures, strengthening the quantum ecosystem, integration of quantum technologies in security strategies and the development of first-class workforce in the field of quantum technologies. This shows how diverse and holistic the approach is with which Europe wants to meet the challenges.

A crucial point in this context is the creation of a resilient, confident quantum ecosystem that promotes the development of startups and converts groundbreaking science into marketable applications. So far, however, there is a fragmentation in the strategies and timetables of the individual Member States, which is why targeted coordination is required.

Europe's research landscape - Starks

Europe benefits from strong research institutions and trains more quantum engineers than other regions. According to the study on quantum technologies of the Fraunhofer ISI, Germany has a key role in quantum-technology research. Despite all the advantages, however, it remains to be seen that the European implementation of innovations into marketable possibilities is often behind the possibilities. A lot is done in our neighboring countries: there are currently 473 companies worldwide that deal with quantum computing, with the majority being based in the USA and China.

The challenge of securing the financing of quantum start-ups should not be underestimated. With a view to the United States and Asia, many talented companies migrate into plants that promise faster success stories. In order for Europe not to get stuck in the quantum technology, targeted framework conditions should be created in order to secure sustainable investments. A European variant of the Darpa could be an effective means of promoting risky quantum technologies.

Overall, it can be said that Europe is on the right track in terms of quantum technologies, but the social and political will is required to take the necessary steps into a top position-not only on paper, but also in practical implementation. Because one thing is certain: if Europe wants to stay in the game, there is something!