DND/CAF’s Quantum Science and Technology Strategy

DND/CAF’s Quantum Science and Technology Strategy 

The Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces (DND/CAF) Quantum Science and Technology (S&T) Strategy charts a path to advancing Canada’s defence, safety and security interests in the emerging field of quantum science. This is the first federal department quantum science and technology strategy and will position DND/CAF to anticipate the disruption expected by quantum technology, act to take advantage of cutting-edge science and adapt to quantum innovation. 

Quantum S&T has a wide array of defence, safety and security applications, such as sensing (including positioning, navigation and timing), communications, computing, and the development of new materials. 

Comprehensive approach 

The Quantum S&T Strategy will ensure defence concerns are addressed from the outset in quantum research. By defining focus areas, the Strategy will make it easier to develop technology for use in the field that meets defence needs. As well, the Strategy will help DND/CAF evaluate the military implications, including threats and vulnerabilities, introduced by quantum technologies. 

By streamlining the focus through this strategy, DND/CAF will move innovation from the lab into the hands of CAF members to protect Canada’s defence, safety and security interests. It will also advance defence interests in quantum technologies by building partnerships domestically and globally. 

DND/CAF will achieve this by: 

• Focusing initial efforts on developing world-leading quantum sensing applications.
• Evaluating new threats and vulnerabilities that may be introduced by quantum technologies.
• Moving quantum technologies out of the laboratory into working prototypes.
• Establishing strong strategic partnerships with other federal government departments to tap into world-class expertise in quantum S&T and drive quantum innovation in defence capabilities.
• Leveraging investments in world-leading quantum S&T in order to access and accelerate mutually-beneficial quantum technologies developed by international allies.
• Strengthen DND/CAF’s internal quantum S&T capacity to assess and advise on quantum technologies in a defence, safety and security context, and enable DND/CAF to contribute to and benefit from allied efforts.