The Ministry of Science and ICT and the Air Force have joined hands to develop future weapons systems using quantum science and technology.
The Ministry of Science and ICT said on Oct. 20 that Vice Minister Ryu Je-myeong and Air Force Chief of Staff Son Seok-rak signed a business agreement at KINTEX in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, to cooperate in the field of quantum science and technology. Quantum science and technology is a technology that can implement various functions, such as GPS-denied navigation that can determine location without GPS, stealth detection, and neutralization of military cryptographic systems, and is regarded as a core technology that will change the landscape of future battlefields. Major advanced countries have designated it as a national strategic technology and are implementing focused investment and strict export controls.
The Ministry of Science and ICT and the Air Force shared the view that strengthening defense capabilities through self-reliance in quantum science and technology is necessary, and since August have been discussing the signing of the agreement. With this agreement, the two institutions plan to pool domestic technological capabilities to develop innovative future weapons systems and to push for strengthening defense capabilities through self-reliance in quantum technology.
Under the agreement, the Ministry of Science and ICT will provide the Air Force with advice and infrastructure needed to develop weapons systems applying quantum technology, and the Air Force will review the feasibility of applying quantum technology when raising requirements for weapons systems.
Vice Minister Ryu said, "With this agreement, the development of advanced weapons systems and self-reliance in quantum technology will be achieved simultaneously," adding, "In particular, it will contribute to strengthening the competitiveness of K-defense." Air Force Chief of Staff Son said, "The Air Force will focus on securing innovative technologies that will ensure superiority on future battlefields, such as quantum radar and manned-unmanned teaming combat systems."