National governments are by far the heaviest investors in quantum research and development.
The potential for strategic advantage has spurred a major increase in funding and research and development in recent years.
The three key areas of quantum technology are computing, communications, and sensing.
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Developing quantum technology isnt cheap.
Only a small number of states have the organizational capacity and technological know-how to compete.
But China and the US hold a substantial lead in the new quantum race.
And the race is heating up.
By 2021 this investment had grown to almostUS$2.1 billion.
It would also make it easier to analyze the large data sets used in defense intelligence and cyber security.
Unhackable communication
Quantum communication systems can be completely secure and unhackable.
Quantum communication is also required for networking quantum computers, which is expected to enhance quantum computational power exponentially.
China is the clear global leader here.
A quantum communication web connection using ground and satellite connections alreadylinks Beijing, Shanghai, Jinan, and Heifei.
Chinas prioritization of secure quantum communications is likely linked torevelations of US covert global surveillance operations.
New quantum sensing systems offer more sensitive detection and measurement of the physical environment.
Chinaalready cooperates with Russiain many areas of technology, and events may well propel closer quantum cooperation.
