By Jessica West
Published in The Ploughshares Monitor Spring 2025
What if we could unlock the fundamental rules that govern the universe at its most basic level? Quantum science does just that, reshaping our understanding of reality and transforming the technologies we rely on every day.
In recognition of the century since the beginning of quantum mechanics — the branch of physics that explains the behaviour of particles at the smallest scales — the United Nations has declared 2025 the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.
When applied to technology, quantum mechanics promises to provide unbreakable encryption, ultra-sensitive detection, and revolutionary computing power. These innovations will affect all elements of life on Earth, from manufacturing and medicine to finance, transportation, energy, and the environment.
Quantum mechanics is likely to reshape global security by offering both enhanced defence capabilities and new vulnerabilities. It could strengthen international security or fuel geopolitical tensions. To ensure the best outcome, the power of quantum technologies must be harnessed responsibly around the globe.
So far, global governance is lagging, as states focus on besting the competition rather than developing a shared approach to security. As quantum capabilities advance, we must rethink security strategies, embracing resilience, adaptability, and cooperation. Achieving this requires more than innovation — it demands a shift in mindset.
The quantum revolution
The twentieth century was powered by classic mechanics and thermodynamics. It was a time of industrial and technological revolutions that gave us engines, electricity, and computers, and a worldview predicated on predictable systems that could be measured, controlled, and made more efficient.
The twenty-first century is being shaped by quantum science and complexity, which exemplify uncertainty and interconnectedness. This type of thinking spurs the development of adaptable networks, technologies that harness probability, and systems that don’t behave in simple, linear ways.
To grasp why quantum science is so powerful, it helps to understand a few of its key features — strange but fundamental properties that operate at the subatomic level:
Wave-particle duality: Everything waves
In the quantum world, things aren’t just particles or waves — they’re both at the same time. Light, electrons, even whole atoms behave as tiny points and rippling waves simultaneously. This means that reality is far more fluid and complex than what we perceive on the surface of everyday life. If you’ve ever seen ripples on a pond interfere with each other, you’ve seen how quantum objects behave.
1. Superposition: Existing in multiple states at once
Imagine a coin that, when flipped, lands on both heads and tails at the same time — until you look at it. This is an example of superposition; quantum objects exist in multiple possible states simultaneously until something (like a measurement) forces them to “choose” one. Schrödinger’s famous cat-in-a-box thought experiment illustrates this: until you open the box, the cat is both alive and dead. Superposition gives quantum computers their power; rather than working through calculations one at a time, they process many possibilities simultaneously. It also makes quantum sensors incredibly precise as they measure multiple states at one time.
2. Entanglement: The ultimate connection
Entangled particles are so deeply linked that no matter how far apart they are — even across galaxies — changing one instantly changes the other. And if one particle is measured, we automatically “know” the status of the other. What Einstein called “spooky action at a distance” makes quantum communication unhackable —theoretically. Picture entanglement as a flock of birds moving in perfect synchronization — except that they are “correlating without communicating.”
Quantum mechanics acts as a conductor, amplifying and connecting the impact of technologies. Quantum computing doesn’t just make computers faster; it allows us to solve problems that standard computing can’t handle. Additionally, quantum computing enhances artificial intelligence (AI) by enabling faster data processing and more advanced algorithms, which could revolutionize decision-making in areas like healthcare, finance, and climate modeling. But the unpredictable nature of quantum advancements means that the changes they bring will include both unforeseen opportunities and risks.
3. Quantum technology and global security
Even in the near term, quantum technology will dramatically reshape global security by changing how sensitive information is secured, detected, and processed. But because these changes can serve multiple purposes, they are likely to both enhance and threaten international peace and security. The chart on the previous page illustrates just a few of these parallel possibilities.
Bridging the quantum governance gap
While quantum technology has made rapid gains in recent years, there has been only limited global discussion on security implications. Defence alliances, including NATO, are beginning to explore possible security impacts; and states, including Canada, are striving to develop the technology to achieve research leadership and economic gain. But broader governance efforts lag. Reflecting on Canada’s approach, Kristen Csenkey and Aniska Graver note that strategies to advance quantum capabilities still do not include any consideration of values and ethics. Organizations such as the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) have noted the lack of dedicated policy forums that allow for structured dialogue on the global development, adoption, and use of quantum technologies.
Initiatives are emerging to improve access to quantum technology. By providing a much needed opportunity to raise awareness, foster collaboration, and promote inclusivity, the UN-designated International Year of Quantum Science and Technology is helping to mitigate the potential to intensify global inequalities and encourage new arms races. As well, the Open Quantum Institute promotes global and inclusive access to quantum computing, while Open Quantum Design in Waterloo, Ontario is building the first open-access quantum computer.
However, from a peace-and-security perspective, gaining access to this innovative technology is not enough. What’s needed is a fundamental shift in mindset to reflect the unique challenges and opportunities that quantum presents.
A quantum mindset
Quantum science not only transforms technology; it redefines reality. If our thinking remains focused on control, efficiency, and predictability, we risk misunderstanding or mismanaging these new technologies. To navigate a quantum future wisely, we need to embrace the principles behind it: uncertainty, adaptability, and deep interconnection.
Old concepts that underpin security strategies, such as calculated deterrence, managed escalation, command-and-control, and absolute security should be discarded; they are based on the false belief that we can control and dominate the world around us. A quantum reality requires a shift to security strategies that prioritize adaptability, resilience, and cooperation. States and institutions that fail to adapt won’t be able to keep up with emerging threats, technological advances, or shifting realities and will become increasingly vulnerable. Those that do adopt a more flexible and cooperative approach will be better equipped to navigate uncertainty and foster lasting security in a profoundly interconnected world.
