On September 2, HELM Innovations, LLC Founder and President Steve Hoffman urged the Department of Defense to proactively integrate quantum technology, arguing that a reactive approach to such disruptive innovation is no longer viable. Hoffman, speaking with Francis Rose on Fed Gov, highlighted a systemic challenge extending beyond quantum: how the Department of Defense can connect technologists, operators, industry, and investors to accelerate technology transition.
Hoffman detailed this challenge in a September 2 interview, emphasizing that waiting for full technology maturity before considering operational integration is no longer viable. HELM Innovations is also sponsoring the U.S.-UK Quantum Security Forum on September 22, aiming to foster collaboration toward operational readiness.
DoD Urgency: Connecting Quantum Technology to Warfighter Needs
The Department of Defense faces a critical need to balance defining requirements with embracing unexpected capabilities unlocked by emerging technologies like quantum computing. Hoffman asserts that traditional defense innovation, often beginning with a pre-defined warfighter need, risks overlooking the potential of truly disruptive technologies to create unforeseen advantages. A key component of accelerating technology transition, Hoffman explained, involves establishing a more connected defense innovation ecosystem.
This ecosystem must deliberately link understanding operational problems with identifying emerging solutions, rapid prototyping, warfighter experimentation, and ultimately, scalable program integration. He illustrated this point with examples like the iPhone, ChatGPT, and Starlink, technologies whose full impact became clear only after users experienced their capabilities.
Hoffman views the forum as a vital step in fostering the necessary collaboration. “The U.S.-UK Quantum Security Forum is exactly the kind of engagement we need,” he stated, adding, “Gib Armstrong and Phase Meridian are bringing the right communities together before quantum reaches full maturity—creating the relationships and conversations that can help turn scientific advancement into national security capability.” Hoffman argues that connecting warfighters, technologists, industry, and investors is about establishing a proactive approach to technology transition applicable to all emerging fields.
He explained that connecting operational problems, emerging technology, experimentation, industry, and capital more effectively will allow for faster progress and better positioning when the next disruptive technology arrives. Hoffman stresses that successful technology transition hinges on delivering useful capability into the hands of those who will employ it.
See today’s quantum computing news on Quantum Zeitgeist for the latest breakthroughs in qubits, hardware, algorithms, and industry deals.
