Türkiye is making significant strides in the field of quantum technology with the introduction of a national quantum roadmap. Aiming to compete on a global scale, this comprehensive plan outlines 85 specific technologies across three key domains: quantum computing, sensing, and communication. Released by the Defense Industries Presidency (Savunma Sanayii Başkanlığı, SSB) in June 2026, this roadmap categorizes these technologies into 34 immediate objectives and 51 long-term priorities.
Collaborative Development Process
The roadmap emerged from an initiative called OTAĞ, which stands for “Odak Teknoloji Ağı” or “Focus Technology Network.” This structured process began on December 25, 2024, and concluded a year later, bringing together approximately 305 experts from 123 institutions, including government bodies, research agencies, universities, and private companies. The collaboration was extensive, with the initial launch event attracting around 300 participants from various sectors, all contributing to a structured framework for prioritizing technologies based on their maturity and significance.
Areas of Strength in Quantum Technology
The report highlights Türkiye’s current strengths and areas needing further development. It identifies quantum security and cryptography as near-term priorities within the realm of computing. Given the existential threats posed by quantum computers to traditional encryption methods, the report underlines the urgency of developing robust solutions. Türkiye has strong foundations in mathematics and computer science, which positions it advantageously in hardware-independent areas like quantum algorithms and machine learning. A key recommendation is the establishment of a national quantum software library, essential due to emerging restrictions on public access to existing resources.
In the area of sensing, the report notes that Türkiye has already built competencies in technologies such as quantum magnetometers and atomic clocks, which are closest to market readiness. Future goals include the development of advanced prototypes for quantum radar and LIDAR systems. When it comes to communication, priorities focus on secure quantum protocols and hybrid security infrastructures that meld quantum key distribution with post-quantum cryptography, emphasizing the need for technological advancements in quantum networking.
The Global Competitive Landscape
Türkiye’s roadmap does not exist in a vacuum. The document acknowledges the global urgency to invest in quantum technology, reflecting the rapidly escalating funding efforts worldwide. Estimates indicate that cumulative public investment has reached around $45 billion, with notable contributions from countries like Japan and Australia. The report also expresses concern over tightening global supply chains, which could significantly impact Türkiye’s technological independence in the sector. It stresses the importance of building domestic capabilities to mitigate potential national security risks associated with technological reliance.
Building an Inclusive Ecosystem
Furthermore, the report outlines initiatives that will support the implementation of the roadmap. Türkiye chairs its national delegation to NATO’s Transatlantic Quantum Community and has launched the Türkiye Quantum Platform to enhance public awareness and educational opportunities in quantum technology. Additionally, strategic partnerships with prominent universities will be solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding, further enhancing the talent pool and strengthening industry-academic collaborations.
Talent development is a crucial focus, as the report identifies it as a limiting factor in the successful implementation of the roadmap. Enhanced interdisciplinary graduate programs, funding for research exchanges, and efforts to attract top-tier researchers are emphasized as essential steps in building a sustainable quantum ecosystem.
Türkiye’s journey into quantum technology, underscored by a meticulous roadmap and collaborative efforts, positions the nation as a potential leader in a rapidly evolving field. The structured approach laid out in the roadmap provides a clear pathway for the development and maturation of critical quantum technologies, signifying Türkiye’s intent to not just participate but to excel in the global quantum landscape.