Quantum Radar: Snake Oil or Good Idea?

Abstract

Quantum radar has been proposed in the quantum information science literature as a novel approach to sensing that can offer a substantial gain over existing, classical sensors. In particular, a quantum radar based on quantum entanglement, termed quantum illumination radar, has been theoretically shown to demonstrate superiority over the optimal classical sensor, and there have been some experimental validation. However, all of the existing literature in the subject is in language, terminology and metrics that are completely unfamiliar (or relevant) to classical radar experts, and as a result there is understandable skepticism among the radar experts. This paper attempts to bridge the large gap between practical radar scientists and quantum information science (QIS) experts working in the field. We review the theoretical state-of-the-art in field and examine some of the claims in the literature in terms of metrics of relevance to radar detection, tracking and sensor fusion. We also discuss some possible technological routes to building such a radar across the electromagnetic spectrum.