Finland has been selected to coordinate a major new European Union defence project under the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) initiative, focusing on applying quantum technologies to future military applications. The project, titled Quantum Enablers for Strategic Advantage (QUEST), aims to explore the use of quantum computing, sensing, and metrology in areas such as encryption-breaking, positioning, surveillance, and air and missile defence.
Proposed by Finland, QUEST drew the widest interest among the 11 newly adopted PESCO projects and includes participation from Germany, Denmark, Latvia, and Italy, with Sweden, Greece, and the Netherlands joining as observers. The initiative will be jointly managed by Finland’s Ministry of Defence and the VTT Technical Research Centre, leveraging Finland’s established quantum technology ecosystem and expertise.
The project prioritizes near-term applications such as quantum sensors and metrology tools, which are currently considered the most viable for defence use. These technologies are seen as especially relevant in environments where traditional navigation systems like GPS may be compromised. The initiative is also viewed as a strategic response to increased global investments in quantum technology, particularly by Russia and China.
QUEST is part of a broader EU defence strategy to strengthen technological sovereignty and enhance military interoperability among member states. As one of 75 total PESCO projects, it reflects Europe’s commitment to addressing emerging security challenges through collaborative innovation and joint development. It will also help reinforce the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base.
While full implementation plans and budget details have not yet been disclosed, the Finnish Ministry of Defence emphasized the project’s long-term role in enabling the integration of quantum systems into defence infrastructure. EU officials have also noted that projects like QUEST are critical for preparing for next-generation warfare and boosting the region’s defence readiness.
More details are available in the Helsinki Times article here, the Finnish Ministry of Defence press release here, and the Council of the EU announcement here.
June 2, 2025
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