The UK has launched the Integrated Quantum Networks Hub, led by Heriot-Watt University and backed by over £42 million, to develop scalable, secure quantum communications infrastructure as part of the UK’s 2035 quantum strategy. The Hub unites 12 leading universities, two national laboratories, and more than 40 industry partners to tackle key challenges in quantum networking, including interoperability, security protocols, and integration with current fiber infrastructure.

The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) has released the latest version of its study, “Entwicklungsstand Quantencomputer Version 2.1”, which offers a comprehensive overview of the current state of quantum computing. Focusing on both the theoretical and practical aspects of the technology, as well as its potential implications for cryptanalysis, the study provides an essential resource for scientists and professionals in fields such as mathematics and computer science.

The European Quantum Industry Consortium (QuIC) is proud to release its latest Position Paper on the EU Quantum Strategy, providing a strategic vision for the future of quantum technologies in Europe. As global competition intensifies, it is crucial for Europe to take decisive action to secure its leadership in quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing. This paper outlines the essential steps needed to reinforce Europe’s position, ensuring the development of a thriving quantum ecosystem that fosters innovation, investment, and economic growth.

South Korea launches a ₩1 trillion Science and Technology Innovation Fund, with a dedicated account allocating ₩20 billion annually for quantum startups over four years.The government plans to train 2,500 quantum researchers to expand the talent pipeline and strengthen national quantum capabilities.Key initiatives include developing 1,000-qubit quantum computers, expanding quantum infrastructure, and integrating quantum cryptography into national security.Industry experts criticize the lack of additional investment, noting that South Korea lags behind the U.S., China, and the U.K. in quantum funding and industrialization efforts.

The Regional Government of Madrid is strengthening its commitment to quantum communications with an investment of 16 million euros in research projects on quantum communications and cybersecurity within the framework of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technologies declared by UNESCO. Among the initiatives the regional government is promoting stands out MadQuantum-CM, which aims to expand the largest quantum communications network in Europe, MadQCI, positioning itself as a strategic initiative for the development of secure quantum communications in Europe.

Italy is rolling out a national quantum strategy to strengthen its position in quantum computing, communication, sensing, and metrology, while addressing funding shortfalls and gaps in industrial adoption.The government report outlines a plan to build national quantum labs, expand workforce training, and incentivize private sector investment to accelerate commercialization.Despite strong academic expertise, Italy lags behind international competitors in funding and startup activity, with the public consultation process now open for stakeholder input.

IonQ has agreed to acquire a controlling stake in ID Quantique (IDQ) and expects to form a strategic partnership with SK Telecom to expand its quantum networking capabilities.The acquisition will add IDQ’s quantum networking business, team, and nearly 300 patents to IonQ’s portfolio, increasing its total granted and pending patents to nearly 900.IonQ anticipates closing the deal within nine months, continuing its expansion in quantum networking following its recent acquisition of Qubitekk and major U.S. Air Force contracts.

DARPA’s Robust Quantum Sensors (RoQS) program aims to adapt quantum sensors for mobile defense platforms by overcoming challenges like vibrations and environmental interference.The program will integrate advanced sensors into military systems through collaboration with private-sector manufacturers and government teams.Quantum sensors developed under RoQS could improve navigation in GPS-denied areas and enhance threat detection by stabilizing performance in dynamic environments.

Quantum technologies challenge established systems engineering methodologies by introducing non-classical properties which complicate design, validation, and integration processes.Applications in navigation and radar systems demonstrate quantum technologies’ potential, though practical implementation requires overcoming size, energy efficiency, and cost barriers.Integrating quantum systems requires new systems engineering approaches, including isolating quantum effects within subsystems and developing predictive models tailored to quantum phenomena to reduce trial-and-error inefficiencies.A paper from QinetiQ, Thales, DSTL, and others advocates for a new discipline—quantum systems engineering—that combines technical innovation with interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging quantum literacy across policymakers, industry leaders, and engineers.

Thales Alenia Space and Hispasat have begun developing QKD-GEO, the world’s first quantum key distribution system from geostationary orbit, funded by Spain’s Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan.The project aims to establish secure communications using quantum technology to safeguard critical infrastructure, government, and corporate data, while paving the way for a future quantum internet.Scheduled for completion within 24 months, QKD-GEO includes the development of a quantum payload, ground segment, and field testing between La Palma and Tenerife, involving a consortium of Spanish and European experts.