Turkey has unveiled an ambitious national quantum roadmap: 85 priority technologies
Turkey has taken a decisive step toward technological sovereignty by publishing its national quantum roadmap. In my assessment, this document is not just a plan but a bid for a place in the elite of the global quantum race. It identifies 85 critical technologies spanning three key areas: quantum computing, quantum sensing, and quantum communications.
The structure of priorities deserves special attention. Of the total technologies, 34 are classified as short-term (implementation within the next few years), while 51 are long-term, reflecting a well-thought-out, phased approach. The roadmap was developed under the OTAĞ process, overseen by Turkey's Defense Industry Agency (SSB). This is a fundamental point: oversight by the defense agency underscores the strategic importance of quantum technologies for national security and independence.
The scale of resources involved is impressive. Approximately 305 experts from 123 different organizations — including research institutes, universities, industrial enterprises, and government bodies — participated in drafting the document. Such broad consensus indicates that Turkey intends to build an ecosystem, not merely purchase technologies.
Key Priorities: Security and Communication
Analysis of the roadmap shows that the main short-term focus is on three interconnected areas. Topping the list is quantum security and cryptography. Given the threat quantum computers pose to modern encryption algorithms (including SHA-256, which underpins Bitcoin), this is an entirely logical and timely step. The second priority is quantum sensors — technologies capable of revolutionizing navigation, medicine, and intelligence. The top three are rounded out by the development of secure quantum communications, likely including quantum key distribution (QKD).
Expert commentary: For the global crypto industry and blockchain sector, Turkey's activity in quantum cryptography is an important signal. While market attention is largely focused on scaling DeFi and regulating stablecoins, states are beginning to lay the groundwork for post-quantum security. Ignoring this trend could render many modern crypto assets vulnerable within the coming decade. Turkey is clearly betting on becoming not just a user but a developer of quantum protection standards.