Quantum Technologies and AI in National Defense: The Strategic Role of Quantum Networks in Contemporary Geopolitics

Quantum networks are connections between quantum processors and repeaters that produce, exchange, and process quantum information. They serve to optimize the transmission of data in the form of quantum bits, known as qubits. Quantum networks were developed to complement classical networks in order to solve problems currently considered impossible. Among these applications are quantum key distribution (QKD), clock synchronization, secure remote computing, metrology, and distributed consensus. The objective of this work is to investigate the technological foundations, their strategic applications, and consequences in geopolitics. Specifically, this article addresses applications in energy sectors considered strategic, such as oil and gas and nuclear energy. Combined with Artificial Intelligence (AI), this technology can accelerate the discovery of wells and the processing of company analyses, making carbon capture more efficient. In nuclear reactors, quantum computing represents a significant advance. Its advantage lies in its ability to perform more precise simulations of nuclear reactions, for example, neutron scattering, fission and fusion processes, and the exploration of extreme environments that are difficult or impossible to reproduce in the laboratory. Furthermore, this article also analyzes the geopolitical impact of this scenario, emphasizing the technological race and strategic disputes. Next, the challenges and perspectives regarding technical barriers, regulatory issues, and the future of quantum networks in the energy matrix are discussed. To conclude this work, reflections are made on methods to achieve the safe and ethical integration of these quantum technologies.