Quantum Technologies in Defence and Dual-Use: Strategic Trends and Opportunities

About this report

Quantum computing and related quantum technologies have rapidly moved from lab concepts toward strategic domains, with defence planners anticipating transformative impacts on security and warfare. Although many quantum capabilities remain pre-operational, NATO and EU officials alike recognize that quantum tech – from ultra-secure communications to precision navigation without GPS – could be game-changers for defence in the near future.

There is growing concern that rival powers’ breakthroughs could lead to a “quantum surprise,” achieving sudden leaps in capability such as unbreakable encryption or novel sensors that catch the Alliance off guard.

Key questions this report answers

• Which quantum technology domains (ultra-secure communications, GPS-free precision navigation, sensing) are most strategically important for NATO and EU security?
• How does the quantum industrial base and value chain move capabilities from lab to battlefield?
• What is the risk of a 'quantum surprise' from rival powers' breakthroughs in encryption or novel sensors?
• What investment opportunities and implications arise for investors in defence-relevant quantum technologies?

Inside this report

• Strategic Importance of Quantum Technologies for NATO and EU Security
• Key Quantum Technology Domains and Defence Applications
• Industrial Base and Value Chain: From Lab to Battlefield
• Investment Opportunities and Implications for Investors

Who it's for

Strategy, corporate-development and investment teams that need an ecosystem-level view — budgets, industrial capacity and technology landscapes — before committing capital or capacity.

Related reports

• Investing in Quantum: Key Public Companies in the US and Europe — United States
• Quantum, Cyber, Space R&D (Operational Priorities)
• Understanding the Evolution of Pure-Play Quantum Computing Firms
• The Translation Gap: Why Europe’s Quantum and Advanced-Materials Research Does Not Automatically Become Defence Capability
• Strategic Investment in Resilient INS/PNT Navigation Systems in the EU
• Quantum Technologies and European Defence Sovereignty

Methodology, format & delivery

DFM reports are built from primary and official sources — TED procurement notices, CORDIS and the EU Funding & Tenders Portal, EIB operations, the NATO Innovation Fund portfolio, SIPRI data, official budget documents and company disclosures — read together with the underlying legal texts. Sources are cited in the document; it reflects them as of its publication date (18 July 2025). You receive a 22-page PDF, watermarked to you on every page, delivered on the confirmation page and by e-mail immediately after checkout (personal link valid 72 hours, up to 5 downloads). Guest checkout, single-user licence — Terms of Sale.

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