On January 17, 2024, NATO released a public summary of its Quantum Technologies Strategy, which had been approved by Foreign Ministers on November 28, 2023. The published document outlined desired outcomes for a quantum-ready Alliance, including the identification of dual-use quantum applications meeting defense planning requirements, the development of interoperability frameworks and standards, cooperation among Allies in quantum technology development, and the transition of NATO’s cryptographic systems to quantum-safe cryptography.
According to the summary, NATO recognized talent as “one of the most critical resources in the pursuit of quantum advantage.” The strategy also addressed responsible innovation across three areas: data privacy, anticipation of international norms development, and sustainability considerations.
On the defensive side, the strategy called for research into quantum-safe communications across air, space, cyber, land, and maritime domains. It further stated that Allies should act to prevent, on a voluntary basis, adversarial investments and interference into Allied quantum ecosystems.