U.S. Air Force Shifts to Quantum Computing for Advanced Military Logistics
Summary:
The U.S. Air Force has secured its first-ever contract for operational quantum computing software with Quantum Research Science. This marks a groundbreaking change in military logistics, replacing traditional binary computers which cap at handling a certain number of variables simultaneously. QRS's quantum software provides a 28% speedup, achieving greater efficiency by using qubits that can exist in multiple states at once. The partnership also involves Quantinuum, formerly Honeywell, to operate the software on their hardware.
In an unprecedented move, the U.S. Air Force has sealed a deal for operational-grade quantum computing software, signifying a bold new step for American military logistics. The contract has been awarded to Quantum Research Science (QRS), a spin-off from Purdue, tasking them with the creation and maintenance of quantum computing software capable of managing the Air Force's worldwide logistics.
Traditionally, U.S. military forces have relied on classical binary computers to coordinate and administer supply operations. However, these computers, when stacked against their advanced quantum equivalents, prove to be less than efficient. These limitations crop up primarily because binary computers can only grapple with a limited number of variables before they get overstretched. The sheer scale of the logistics that the U.S. Air Force needs to handle is beyond the horizon of classical computers. Ethan Krimins, QRS CEO, even compared binary system capabilities to a gamble.
As per Krimins, "A supply chain forecast, in the best case, is an educated guess. In the worst case, it's an absolute shot in the dark."
On the flip side, quantum computers have shown a distinct edge over classical computers. It's because quantum computers utilize qubits rather than traditional binary bits, which are essentially on/off switches. Now, qubits are not unlike bits, but they can exist in more than one state - they can be on, off, or both simultaneously, a state known as superposition. This characteristic enables quantum computers to handle more variables simultaneously, and as a result, speeds up the process and enhances accuracy.
A Purdue University press release reported that the quantum software developed by QRS showed a 28% acceleration compared to the existing software running on binary machines. Information from the QRS website indicates a collaboration between the company and Quantinuum, formerly known as Honeywell, wherein the former is envisioned to run its software on the hardware of the latter.
Related Update: JPMorgan Chase spearheads a $500 million funding round for Honeywell/Cambridge quantum unicorn.
Published At
1/23/2024 10:00:00 PM
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