OQC Demonstrates Quantum Algorithm on Toshiko System, Boosting Defence Network Resilience

OQC and QinetiQ have achieved a breakthrough in quantum computing, successfully demonstrating a real-world application for strengthening defence network resilience. On February 10, 2026, the companies announced they’d integrated QinetiQ’s Quantum Approximation Optimisation Algorithm (QinetiQAOA) with OQC’s Toshiko quantum computer to pinpoint critical vulnerabilities within complex Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks (MANETs) – vital for military and emergency operations. This collaboration proves quantum systems can offer valuable insights into network weaknesses, paving the way for more secure communications. “This project is a tangible example of quantum computing’s power to deliver real operational value,” said Gerald Mullally, CEO of OQC, highlighting how sovereign quantum technology can address immediate defence capability needs.

QinetiQAOA Algorithm Identifies Critical MANET Nodes

A novel quantum algorithm has successfully mapped vulnerabilities within vital military communication networks, demonstrating a practical application of quantum computing for defence. These dynamic, infrastructure-free networks are essential for military and emergency response scenarios, making their resilience paramount. The project modelled these networks as optimisation problems, allowing the quantum system to identify nodes whose failure would most severely disrupt communications. The collaboration revealed that quantum algorithms can effectively highlight these vulnerabilities, with implications for bolstering cyber defence and refining operational planning.

Testing also provided valuable data on the current capabilities of quantum systems, revealing areas for optimisation as the technology matures. Dr Gillian Marshall, QinetiQ’s Capability Lead for Quantum Technology, stated: “Quantum computing offers transformative potential for national security,” highlighting the importance of early exploration and advancement of the science. The work positions the UK at the forefront of quantum defence innovation, combining OQC’s hardware with QinetiQ’s expertise.

OQC Toshiko System Models Defence Network Vulnerabilities

The current landscape of defence network security increasingly relies on anticipating vulnerabilities within complex, rapidly shifting communication systems. Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks (MANETs), crucial for military and emergency response, present a particular challenge due to their dynamic, infrastructure-free nature. Recent work by Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC) and QinetiQ demonstrates a novel approach to assessing these networks, leveraging the power of quantum computation to identify critical weaknesses before they can be exploited. Beyond identifying vulnerabilities, the testing process also yielded valuable data regarding the current capabilities and limitations of quantum systems themselves. OQC currently maintains systems in London, Tokyo, and New York, ensuring secure, sovereign access for defence partners.

Sovereign Quantum Compute Deployed in London, Tokyo, New York

Oxford Quantum Circuits (OQC) is actively establishing a geographically distributed network of sovereign quantum computers, with systems now operational in London, Tokyo, and New York. This strategic deployment isn’t simply about computational power; it’s about control, ensuring secure access for defence and security partners who require it, and maintaining sovereignty over sensitive workloads. OQC achieves this by deploying its hardware and infrastructure directly within customer countries, utilizing secure colocation data centres. The company’s Toshiko quantum computer and cloud-accessible API were central to a recent collaboration with QinetiQ, demonstrating a practical application for strengthening defence communication networks. Results showed quantum algorithms could pinpoint these vulnerabilities, a breakthrough with implications for network resilience and cyber defence.