Quantum Cameras as a Tool for Strategic Space Awareness

Space-based imaging has long underpinned strategic awareness, enabling intelligence collection, early warning, environmental monitoring, and military planning. However, high-resolution imaging has traditionally been limited by physical constraints, high cost, and dependence on large and complex satellite systems. Recent advances in quantum camera technologies have the ability to counter these constraints, with important implications for how states observe, interpret, and respond to developments in space and on Earth.

Quantum cameras differ fundamentally from conventional optical sensors. As compared to standard cameras, which capture images by recording the intensity of light (photons), they use special quantum effects, including photon entanglement (when two photons are connected, despite their distance) and quantum correlations (special relationships in how photons interact). Such systems can retrieve more information with fewer photons. They provide clearer images with reduced signal input, improved performance in low-light or high-noise environments, and resilience against atmospheric distortion. Early experiments have also indicated that quantum-enhanced imaging can outperform classical systems.

Strategically, this has far-reaching implications for space-based situational awareness. Higher sensitivity enables satellites to use smaller apertures without compromising image quality, which may lead to the reduction of the satellite size, launch mass, and programme cost. For example, a 15 cm-aperture satellite had the potential to match the imaging performance of a conventional 30 cm system. This capability is particularly appealing to the emergent space powers seeking credible intelligence and surveillance without incurring the financial costs of a conventional high-end imaging constellation.

The strategic relevance of quantum cameras is also enhanced by their dual-use character. Some civilian uses include climate monitoring, disaster response, precision agriculture, and urban planning, which require high-quality data provided by imaging. Simultaneously, these systems have military applications such as reconnaissance, monitoring of critical infrastructure, and awareness of the maritime domain.

Major powers have already realised the strategic importance of quantum technologies. China, the US, and a number of European states have put in place national quantum strategies allocating large funds in sensing, communications, and computing. This indicates that quantum cameras are unlikely to remain niche scientific tools and can instead be integrated into mainstream space-sensing architectures over the next decade.

With successful deployment, this could provide emerging middle powers with space-based sensing capabilities that were once limited to major powers. With the increasing imaging capabilities and decreasing costs, access to a high-quality situational awareness is likely to become less exclusive, which will redefine how these countries handle security threats.

Pakistan’s space programme, despite recent developments, remains limited. With increased dependence on satellite information for national security, disaster management, and economic planning, there is a need to accelerate existing efforts. Establishing itself within the global quantum networks at an early stage will bring long-term strategic dividends. Therefore, it is important to seize opportunities and address issues.

In this regard, cooperation with China in quantum imaging can be used to enhance satellite resolution, secure communications, and intelligence gathering. This could help establish a knowledge base and translate quantum technologies to the country’s needs through joint research efforts, training programmes, and talent transfers. Pakistan and China signed an MoU on quantum technologies in October 2025, describing the partnership as a new step in Pakistan’s scientific cooperation and a potential game changer. The agreement, alongside the Quantum Valley Project initiative, could enable Pakistan to harness advances in quantum computing, sensing, and imaging to strengthen space-based observation, situational awareness, and satellite capabilities. Furthermore, the right acquisition and absorption of capabilities and incremental integration into current space assets would eventually strengthen Pakistan’s existing capabilities, supporting both national security and economic planning.

While the Pakistan-China partnership lays the groundwork for progress, translating these advances into operational capabilities is not seamless. Quantum imaging has deployment issues. It is prone to environmental disturbances, needs accurate calibration, and complex data processing tools. The introduction of quantum sensors to space platforms also entails effective ground infrastructure, secure data connections, and human resources. In the long term, the cost can be lower than that of traditional systems, but initial research, testing, and integration are resource intensive.

In addition, the dual nature poses a pertinent policy dilemma. Leveraging technologies for humanitarian purposes can also raise concerns regarding covert surveillance capabilities. While advanced imaging’s rapid response to natural disasters can save lives and aid recovery, the same tools can also serve military interests, making international regulation difficult and creating an ethical dilemma regarding transparency. These challenges can be mitigated through safeguards, including adaptive optics, which minimises distortions in the environment, export controls, licensing, and end-use monitoring, which can cater to the dual-use nature.

Quantum imaging is not a silver bullet, and it cannot replace established intelligence systems overnight. However, quantum cameras represent a subtle but broader shift in space technologies. Those states that invest early in comprehending and incorporating relevant capabilities will be better positioned to operate in an increasingly competitive, information-driven space domain.