The «Quantum» working group of armasuisse Science and Technology on a working visit to ETH Zurich
On 11 November the specialist «Quantum» working group of armasuisse Science and Technology (S+T) organised a work day on the ETH Zurich campus, combining constructive discussions with scientific exploration. The day was facilitated by the «Quantum Center» of ETH Zurich.
Kilian Wasmer, specialist area Research and Innovation, competence sector armasuisse Science and Technology
In brief
The working visit to ETH Zurich – one of the leading institutions in the field of quantum technologies – proved to be extremely valuable and rewarding. Cutting edge technologies were discovered and potential paths for future projects identified.
The day started off with in-depth internal exchanges of views, during which the participants shared their thoughts on current trends and future prospects for quantum research. They also reviewed current and upcoming projects with armasuisse Science and Technology and the DDPS, and potential collaborations.
These discussions were a way of aligning scientific and strategic priorities while boosting the shared understanding of the significance and potential of quantum technologies, especially in quantum IT, communication and sensing.
The armasuisse Science and Technology «Quantum» working group is an interdisciplinary group which serves as a point of contact for all questions relating to quantum technologies. In addition to advising on, testing and incorporating these technologies, they explore their possible applications in the future.
The afternoon saw a dialogue with various professors at ETH Zurich, followed by visits to laboratories at the cutting edge of quantum technologies. These meetings highlighted the potential for promising interdisciplinary collaborations and exploring potential applications in areas ranging from fundamental physics to IT, communications, sensors, electronics and opto-mechanics.
Conclusion and perspectives
The entire day served to strengthen the synergies between academic players and the armasuisse Science and Technology staff while opening up new prospects for innovative research projects. These regular exchanges strengthen the network between ETH Zurich and the DDPS, linking scientific expertise with practical needs to facilitate the development of innovative approaches in quantum technology.
The next meeting of the armasuisse Science and Technology «Quantum» working group is scheduled for 2026.