Guest Post: How Smaller Nations Should Navigate the Quantum Future — With Lessons Learned from AI’s Growth

The advent of the quantum era is imminent, and smaller nations must navigate this emerging sector with caution, drawing from the lessons learned during the growth of artificial intelligence. The AI sector has experienced an influx of over a trillion dollars in infrastructure investments since the introduction of ChatGPT 3.5 in November 2022. This massive investment has significant implications for national security and economic stability, particularly for smaller nations. As state-aligned threat activity increases, the risks extend beyond immediate targets, elevating the threat landscape from criminal to geopolitical¹. Smaller nations must carefully consider these factors to ensure they are adequately prepared to mitigate potential risks and capitalize on opportunities in the quantum future. The experiences of AI's growth serve as a critical guide for these nations, providing valuable insights into the importance of proactive planning and strategic investment in the face of emerging technological advancements.