Latest news with #QuantumSystems
Euractiv
10-07-2025
- Business
- Euractiv
Europe's sweet spot: Dual-use tech for security and sovereignty
Where wars are no longer won by who has the most boots on the ground, but by who deploys the fastest drone swarm, who can protect their critical energy grid from cyberattacks, and who processes intelligence at machine speed – not ministerial pace. In this world, every power outage, water failure or disrupted satellite signal is not just an inconvenience, it could be an act of war. In this world, Europe is falling behind. And yet, his is also a world where Europe holds a secret weapon: our industrial strength, our tech talent and a unique position at the intersection of civil innovation and strategic security. Europe's strategic sweet Spot Dual-use technologies – those serving both civilian and military purposes – are Europe's strategic sweet spot. They sit at the crossroads of innovation and security, but without the market scale needed to win the tech race. A digitally modernised and secure energy grid is efficient and good for the environment, but it is also resilient to cyberattacks. High-speed 5G and satellite communication is as vital for battlefield communication as it is for data driven businesses. Drones and anti-drone equipment can prevent cyber-attacks on water or energy facilities, but they can also defend soldiers at the frontline in war. Over 80% of targets in Ukraine are hit by cheap drones connected to the AI and earth ground control planform Delta. Drone Tech, green tech, cyber defence tools, satellites, applied AI – these are areas where Europe excels and but lacks demand and therefore companies are looking for other markets to scale and innovate. The EU is facing a major opportunity to build the future defence, but not through loans to traditional defence-equipment and spending county by country. This time around we do this right, let spend 50% of the EU defence fund building EU dual-use capabilities utilising the European market scale, not national nitty-gritty budget. Speed over tradition The war in Ukraine has shown that military advantage is no longer determined by the biggest spenders but by the most agile innovators. Billion-euro tanks and warships are being neutralised by €5,000 drones. Innovation cycles have shrunk from years to weeks. Yet Europe still defaults to traditional models. Germany's €100 billion defence package went largely to tanks and planes, whilst Quantum Systems – a Bavarian drone, satellite an AI platform firm and winner of the DIGITALEUROPE Future Unicorn – delivered over 1,000 drones to Ukraine. Germany's own army ordered just 14. Companies like Quantum need scale and faster procurement, not more paperwork, and unless they get it in EU, they need to go to US. Success today depends on speed, scale and client references, we do not need R&D funding, unless connected to procurement and real business deals – we do innovation for a living. Escaping the regulation trap Europe is world-class at regulation – but regulation doesn't build tech champions. The Draghi report estimates €200 billion in annual compliance costs from EU rules. For tech firms, the true burden is likely far greater. Excessive complexity stifles speed and scalability – essential ingredients in today's global markets. Positive steps are underway. The Commission is working on a 'digital package' to simplify compliance with the EU's digital rules, including importantly on cyber. But we must go further – we must look at both the Data Act and the AI Act to avoid a compliance cliff for companies. A delay in the application of these laws is necessary so that we can seriously streamline these rules to make sure they don't hurt our most promising European digital champions, from medical devices to energy and industrial manufacturing. From spending to building Europe's public sector spends nearly €9 trillion annually – half our GDP. But spending alone is not enough. How we spend is what matters. Fragmentation across 27 countries weakens our impact. As Enrico Letta and Sauli Niinistö rightly observed in their reports, we need cross-border, mission-driven programmes that consolidate efforts and protect critical infrastructure – our energy, water, data centres, transport and hospitals. This is where dual-use tech can shine: protecting European Citisens whilst building up scalable markets for European dual use and defence capabilities. In short, let us address the second battlefield and the thousands of hybrid attacks on critical infrastructure whilst building the capabilities that will define winning or losing at the physical battlefield at war. Strategic Openness Some call for 'Buy European' policies. But shutting others out won't make us stronger. The US 'Buy American' model, in place since 1933, doesn't exclude foreign ownership – it incentivises building and scaling innovations in America. Europe should adopt a similar approach: 'Built in Europe.' Let's attract European and allies' investment, encourage European and foreign companies to manufacture and share know-how here, and ensure that public contracts go to firms that contribute to European resilience – regardless of nationality. This is not about protectionism. It's about strategic industry capacity. Five steps to reclaim tech leadership 1. Streamline regulation – Eliminate duplication, simplify implementation, and harmonise across Member States. 2. Turn research into revenue – demand commercialisation strategy and industry involvement in R&D funding – only a third of European inventions are commercialised here. That must change. 3. Make dual-use tech our launchpad – Focus EU funds on 10 cross-tech procurement and innovation projects that protect critical infrastructure. 4. Fix procurement – Reward security, innovation and speed over price and solidity. 5. Adopt 'Buy Built in Europe' – Build strategic scale whilst remaining open and globally competitive. Europe's defining opportunity Europe has the talent, innovation and values to lead. What we need now is direction and urgency. We won't build tech champions through isolation. Nor will regulation alone protect us. Our best chance lies in embracing dual-use and defence technologies – where Europe already has capabilities, and where market demand is growing fast. By investing in technologies that protect our societies and drive our economies, we can simultaneously enhance security, create jobs, attract investment and build globally competitive firms and get ready and build capacity for the war frontline. This is Europe's sweet spot where they do not need to fight old doctrines of national sovereignty on defence – large-scale pan-European procurements and investments on dual use tech for protection of civil critical infrastructures. Let's act decisively – and lead with it. Cecilia Bonefeld-Dahl is the Director-General of DIGITALEUROPE.
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
IBM Announces Quantum Milestone
Jerry Chow, IBM Fellow and Director of Quantum Systems at IBM Research, explains the company's latest milestone in its effort to build the world's first fault-tolerant quantum computer. Chow speaks with Caroline Hyde on "Bloomberg Tech."
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Quantum Systems Opens New U.S. Facility to Scale Delivery of AI-Powered ISR Solutions
MOORPARK, Calif., June 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Quantum Systems, a leader in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aerial intelligence solutions, today announced the grand opening of its new 135,000-square-foot U.S. production and integration facility at 609 Science Drive in Moorpark, CA. This site marks a significant expansion of Quantum Systems' U.S. footprint and represents a critical step in responding to the growing demand for its tactical uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), enabling the company to deliver scalable innovation at speed. Strategically located in Southern California, the new site will support defense and security partners across North America and Latin America. Quantum Systems expects to employ more than 100 professionals in Moorpark and the greater Ventura County area by the end of 2025, contributing to the region's expanding aerospace and defense ecosystem. "This is more than a new building. It's a launchpad for scaled innovation," said Dave Sharpin, CEO of Quantum-Systems Inc. "We're investing in the future of defense technology with a facility built to meet the demand for affordable mass, AI-powered ISR, and accelerated fielding of next-generation systems. We're proud to grow our workforce in Southern California and to serve our customers with even greater speed and agility." Renovated and outfitted to support the full development lifecycle, the facility houses secure manufacturing lines, engineering labs, in-house flight operations, research and development areas, and administrative and leadership offices. This integrated environment enables end-to-end production, coordination, and refinement of Quantum Systems' Family of Systems—including Vector AI, Twister, and Reliant—while significantly reducing lead times and increasing responsiveness to evolving mission requirements. With active operations in Germany, Australia, Ukraine, Romania, and the UK, Quantum Systems continues to expand its global footprint to meet increasing demand for autonomous, modular ISR solutions. Operations across the United States have now been consolidated at the Science Drive location, replacing the company's previous sites in Moorpark. This centralization streamlines production and enhances collaboration across functions to support defense and security customers. To commemorate the opening, Quantum Systems is hosting a grand opening event today, welcoming defense officials, industry partners, and media for a firsthand look at its scalable approach to aerial intelligence, built around modular design, autonomy at the edge, and deep system interoperability. To learn more about Quantum Systems' ISR capabilities or to request additional information, visit or contact info@ About Quantum-Systems Inc. Quantum-Systems Inc. delivers AI-powered aerial intelligence solutions designed for frontline forces operating in dynamic and contested environments. Specializing in advanced uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), Quantum-Systems Inc. provides autonomous ISR, real-time situational awareness, and decision-making superiority for warfighters. Its modular eVTOL platforms and AI-driven mission autonomy enable seamless operations across multi-domain environments, while a commitment to interoperability and open-architecture design supports rapid integration with existing defense ecosystems. With a Family of Systems built on in-house hardware, software, and AI, Quantum-Systems Inc. equips U.S. and allied defense forces with next-generation ISR capabilities to stay ahead of emerging threats. Located in the United States, Quantum-Systems Inc. operates globally as part of Quantum-Systems GmbH, with additional facilities in Germany, Australia, Ukraine, Romania, and the UK. Its combat-proven technology is trusted by warfighters and defense agencies worldwide, advancing the future of AI-powered aerial intelligence. Media ContactMakayla ThomasSenior Marketing Managerinfo@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Quantum-Systems Inc. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
13-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Nato's ‘drone wall' that would see Russia's invasion coming
SUNDAY 8AM Germany is seeking to build a 'drone wall' along Nato's eastern border with Russia to help defend its Baltic allies from a future invasion. Friedrich Merz, the incoming chancellor, has vowed to rearm Germany in response to the threat from Russia, passing historic reforms last month that unlock potentially unlimited spending on major defence projects. The German arms industry is now discussing the idea of building a fleet of drones – or a 'drone wall' – to defend all or parts of Nato's eastern flank. The wall, also known as a 'drone nexus' in defence industry circles, would consist of hundreds, if not thousands, of unmanned aircraft that would survey the border, act as an early detection system and deter Russian aggression. Nato's eastern member states – Finland, Estonia and Latvia – share a long, porous border with Russia. Western officials fear that it could become the flashpoint of a major confrontation with Moscow in the future. The governments of Finland, Lithuania, Norway and Poland have previously lobbied for a continent-spanning drone wall with EU funding, but that proposal was rejected by Brussels this week, opening the door to a new German-led approach. One of the German firms eager to contribute to the drone wall is Bavaria-based Quantum Systems, which said it could build some of the drones required for the project in just one year. Martin Karkour, the chief sales officer at Quantum Systems, said: 'With the right political coordination, a first operational layer – using existing, proven technology – could be deployed within a year. The technology is ready. What is still needed is a strategy at the EU or Nato level.' He added: 'We have the capacity to produce hundreds of AI-powered reconnaissance drones per month and scale further.' He stressed that the project was a huge undertaking that may need to involve several defence and technology firms, as well as a clear vision from the top levels of Nato and the EU. Mr Karkour said it was important that the drone wall, or 'nexus', be sourced within Europe because of growing concerns that the continent can no longer rely on US security guarantees. 'European-made systems ensure strategic autonomy and keep sensitive data under European control. The 'kill switch' issue certainly also has some truth to it – also when it comes to software support of existing systems,' he said, referring to the purported ability of the US to remotely shut down weapons it sells to Europe. 'European systems can also be tailored to local legal and operational standards – that's critical for sovereign security,' he added. Quantum Systems' battle-hardened drone fleet is already being used by Ukrainian forces, such as the Achilles battalion, which is estimated to have destroyed $56 million (£43 million) worth of Russian anti-aircraft and missile systems since the full-scale invasion. The Munich-based defence firm Helsing, which has also shown interest in the drone wall concept, said drone patrols could be used as an alternative to minefields on the Russia-Nato border. In a recent interview, Gundbert Scherf, Helsing's chief executive, discussed the idea of a drone wall spanning Nato's entire eastern flank, from Finland to Bulgaria. He told Deutschlandfunk, a German newspaper: 'If we deploy there in large numbers, rely on asymmetric capabilities and concentrate tens of thousands of combat drones there, then it will be a very credible conventional deterrent.' In March, Mr Merz, the leader of the centre-Right Christian Democrats, passed major legislation in the German parliament that made defence projects costing more than 1 per cent of GDP exempt from the 'debt brake', a strict limit on borrowing. The reforms marked a sea change for Germany, ending its post-war aversion to vast military spending and taking on excessive government debts. They have also raised the prospect of a major boom for the German defence industry, which already provides substantial military support to Ukraine via the tanks and artillery manufacturer Rheinmetall, among other companies. Mr Merz is due to be sworn in as Germany's next chancellor in early May, having secured a coalition deal with the centre-Left Social Democrats. The coalition will largely tackle mass migration, tax cuts and support for the car industry, but also vows to keep up military support for Ukrainian soldiers and financial commitments to Nato. Mr Karkour, and other German defence firm leaders, are now waiting for directions from the new government, and may soon be fiercely competing for contracts that could define Europe's long-term security. At that point, he said, an estimated cost for the project will become clearer. He said: 'Before any serious estimate can be made, political and military leaders need to define the operational requirements, 'What exactly needs to be monitored, where, and at what level of persistence? That's not a question for industry to answer – it's a strategic decision. Once those parameters are clear, industry can deliver scalable, costed solutions.' Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Telegraph
13-04-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
Nato's ‘drone wall' that would see Russia's invasion coming
Germany is seeking to build a 'drone wall' along Nato's eastern border with Russia to help defend its Baltic allies from a future invasion. Friedrich Merz, the incoming chancellor, has vowed to rearm Germany in response to the threat from Russia, passing historic reforms last month that unlock potentially unlimited spending on defence projects. The German arms industry is now discussing the idea of building a fleet of drones – or a 'drone wall' – to defend all or parts of Nato's eastern flank. The wall, also known as a 'drone nexus' in defence industry circles, would consist of hundreds, if not thousands, of unmanned aircraft that would survey the border, act as an early detection system and deter Russian aggression. Nato's eastern member states – Finland, Estonia and Latvia – share a long, porous border with Russia. Western officials fear that it could become the flashpoint of a major confrontation with Moscow in the future. The governments of Finland, Lithuania, Norway and Poland have previously lobbied for a continent-spanning drone wall with EU funding, but that proposal was rejected by Brussels this week, opening the door to a German-led approach. One of the German firms eager to contribute to the drone wall is Bavaria-based Quantum Systems, which said it could build some of the drones required for the project in just one year. Martin Karkour, the chief sales officer at Quantum Systems, said: 'With the right political coordination, a first operational layer – using existing, proven technology – could be deployed within a year. The technology is ready. What is still needed is a strategy at the EU or Nato level.' He added: 'We have the capacity to produce hundreds of AI-powered reconnaissance drones per month and scale further.' He stressed that the project was a huge undertaking that may need to involve several defence and technology firms, as well as a clear vision from the top levels of Nato and the EU. Mr Karkour said it was important that the drone wall, or 'nexus', be sourced within Europe because of growing concerns that the continent can no longer rely on US security guarantees. 'European-made systems ensure strategic autonomy and keep sensitive data under European control. The 'kill switch' issue certainly also has some truth to it – also when it comes to software support of existing systems,' he said, referring to the purported ability of the US to remotely shut down weapons it sells to Europe. 'European systems can also be tailored to local legal and operational standards – that's critical for sovereign security,' he added. Quantum Systems' battle-hardened drone fleet is already being used by Ukrainian forces, such as the Achilles battalion, which is estimated to have destroyed $56 million (£43 million) worth of Russian anti-aircraft and missile systems since the full-scale invasion. The Munich-based defence firm Helsing, which has shown interest in the wall concept, said drone patrols could be used as an alternative to minefields on the Russia-Nato border. In a recent interview, Gundbert Scherf, Helsing's chief executive, discussed the idea of a drone wall spanning Nato's entire eastern flank, from Finland to Bulgaria. He told Deutschlandfunk, a German newspaper: 'If we deploy there in large numbers, rely on asymmetric capabilities and concentrate tens of thousands of combat drones there, then it will be a very credible conventional deterrent.' In March, Mr Merz, the leader of the centre-Right Christian Democrats, passed major legislation in the German parliament that made defence projects costing more than 1 per cent of GDP exempt from the 'debt brake', a strict limit on borrowing. German military spending The reforms marked a significant change for Germany, ending its post-war aversion to vast military spending and taking on excessive government debts. They have also raised the prospect of a boom for the German defence industry, which already provides substantial military support to Ukraine via the tanks and artillery manufacturer Rheinmetall, among other companies. Mr Merz is due to be sworn in as Germany's next chancellor in early May, having secured a coalition deal with the centre-Left Social Democrats. The coalition will largely tackle mass migration, tax cuts and support for the car industry, but also vows to keep up military support for Ukrainian soldiers and financial commitments to Nato. Mr Karkour, and other German defence firm leaders, are now waiting for directions from the new government, and may soon be fiercely competing for contracts that could define Europe's long-term security. At that point, he said, an estimated cost for the project will become clearer. He said: 'Before any serious estimate can be made, political and military leaders need to define the operational requirements, 'What exactly needs to be monitored, where, and at what level of persistence? That's not a question for industry to answer – it's a strategic decision. Once those parameters are clear, industry can deliver scalable, costed solutions.'
