At the Global Air Chiefs Conference, the UK's Minister of State for the Armed Forces, James Heappey, stressed the need for Western nations to anticipate the practical use of quantum computing in aircraft design.

Heappey highlighted that quantum computing could revolutionise national security applications, including cracking encryption, building precise sensors, and improving navigation systems. Its potential impact on warfare could be profound, enabling armed forces to process vast amounts of data and enhance their capabilities significantly.

Heappey also discussed the accelerating pace of technological innovation, noting that aircraft may become outdated much earlier in their service life due to rapid advancements. The key to future success lies in leveraging intelligence about adversaries' activities, working with industry to innovate, and applying military cunning in utilising advanced systems.