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Modern military operations depend heavily on satellite navigation, secure communications and precise timing. That dependence creates vulnerabilities: GPS and other satellite signals can be jammed, spoofed or unavailable during conflict, while increasingly sophisticated cyber and electronic warfare threats can disrupt communications and sensor networks. Quantum technologies could provide alternative ways to navigate, communicate and detect threats when conventional systems are compromised.
Canada has established its first defense innovation hub dedicated specifically to quantum technology, allocating C$20.3 million ($14.5 million) over two years to develop and test military applications. Known as the Quantum Defence Innovation Secure Hub (DISH), the facility will provide a protected environment where approved government, academic and industry teams can move emerging quantum technologies closer to operational use.
According to the Defense Post, one of the hub’s main priorities will be quantum sensing, particularly technologies that could support navigation without continuous access to Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). Quantum sensors can measure extremely small changes in physical properties such as acceleration, rotation, magnetic fields or gravity. When combined with inertial navigation systems, these measurements could help vehicles, aircraft or personnel estimate their movement and position even when satellite signals are unavailable.
Researchers will also investigate technologies capable of detecting navigation spoofing, in which an adversary broadcasts false satellite signals to make a receiver calculate an incorrect position. Improving the ability to recognize manipulated signals could be particularly important for autonomous vehicles, drones and precision military systems operating in electronically contested environments.
Another research area will focus on quantum communications. Quantum-based techniques can use properties of individual particles to help detect attempts to intercept communications, potentially providing additional protection for sensitive military data. The program will also examine more precise timing technologies and quantum algorithms for processing information and supporting operational decisions.
However, developing a promising quantum device in a laboratory does not guarantee that it will work reliably in military conditions. The hub will therefore include quantum hardware assurance, evaluating whether components remain secure, accurate and dependable under realistic operating conditions.
The facility will operate under BOREALIS, which is an organization tasked with connecting scientific research and engineering programs with military requirements. The objective is to reduce the gap between experimental technology and systems that can actually be deployed.
For defense forces, the appeal of quantum technology lies largely in resilience. Navigation that does not depend entirely on satellites, more secure communications and highly sensitive detection systems could provide alternatives when conventional technologies are disrupted or attacked.
The application joins similar secure-hub initiatives focused on maritime technology and uncrewed systems. Over the next two years, its central challenge will be determining which quantum technologies can move beyond controlled research environments and provide practical advantages in real military operations.
