Quantum in the Quad 2026: From Lab to Frontline Support – Dual‑Use Quantum Innovation Showcase

Join Oxfordshire’s Regional Defence and Security Cluster (OBC‑RDSC) and the Oxfordshire Cybersecurity Cluster (OxCyber CIC) for an evening exploring the security implications of quantum technologies as they move from research labs into real applications. Part of OxTech Week 2026, this second edition of Quantum in the Quad spotlights real‑world demonstrators, dual‑use innovation, and the operational impact of quantum capabilities.

​Quantum technology is reshaping the security landscape far beyond the familiar “cybersecurity-breaking” narrative. Advances in quantum sensing, timing, secure communications, navigation, and detection are starting to influence how we build, operate, and secure the systems our society depends on every day.

​Quantum in the Quad 2026 brings together innovators, users, security practitioners, and researchers to explore how quantum capabilities are transitioning into practical security tools — and what this means for the future of the UK and society. 

​Agenda

​Lightning Talks – 60m (max 10m each)

​Fast, focused insights on:

• ​Quantum‑enhanced situational awareness

• ​Precision timing and navigation as GPS‑denied alternatives

• ​Secure quantum communications and architectures

• ​Introduction of quantum systems into real‑world security operations

• ​Cybersecurity considerations and quantum‑safe cryptography

​Networking -15m as we transition to demos and refreshments

​Networking continues with demos around the room – 45m, We invite hands‑on demos from 4-5 from quantum innovators, including:

• ​TBC

​Fireside Chat: “From Lab to Frontline – Deploying Quantum Capabilities for Security.

​Panellists – TBC

​A candid conversation exploring:

• ​What defence users actually need from quantum technologies

• ​The practical, ethical, and strategic realities of deployment

• ​How to bridge TRL gaps for operational readiness

• ​The dual‑use challenge: export controls, standards, and commercialisation

• ​Where quantum creates security advantage versus security risk

​Why Attend?

• ​A security‑driven framing of quantum technologies

• ​Insights from real practitioners

• ​A platform spotlighting innovators ready for defence engagement

• ​Opportunities for cross‑cluster collaboration between cyber, defence, and quantum communities

• ​A flagship moment for OxTech Week 2026

​Close out with 30m of networking.

​If you are working in security, cyber, R&D, innovation policy, or emerging tech — this event will give you a clear, grounded picture of the security impacts of quantum systems.