Quantum Technology from Russia: Partnerships with India and China
In the age of digital transformation, quantum technologies are evolving from academic curiosity to a strategic priority. Russia is leveraging international collaboration to secure its place in the global race toward quantum innovation.
Strategic Alliances for a Quantum Future
Since the early 2020s, Russia has steadily built alliances in quantum research, particularly with India and China. Together, these BRICS countries are working to challenge the dominance of Western tech powers by developing quantum computing, cryptography, and communication systems.
In 2023, Russia proposed the creation of a BRICS quantum laboratory. This initiative aims to pool infrastructure, data, and standards across national boundaries, and has garnered broad support.
Labs, Algorithms, and Cross-Border Innovation
In 2024, Russian and Indian researchers launched a collaborative project focused on quantum algorithms and software tailored to the technological realities of emerging markets. This work is centered around Moscow State University and the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore, with a focus on quantum cryptography and data transfer networks.
Such joint labs not only attract young scientists, but also reinforce BRICS nations' collective research capacity—an increasingly important asset in global tech politics.
Quantum Communication and the New Internet
One of the most ambitious Russian-led efforts is the development of quantum-secure communication over a distance of more than 4,000 km between Russia and China. The project, which began in 2024, relies on quantum cryptography to create unbreakable encryption protocols.
Russia and China are encouraging India to join in, with the goal of establishing a regional quantum internet. If successful, this system could revolutionize secure voting, financial transactions, and the handling of sensitive government data.
BRICS and the Global Quantum Ecosystem
Russia is also advancing the idea of a unified BRICS quantum space. A major initiative set to launch in 2025 will be funded by the New Development Bank and will support research in quantum computing. By sharing discoveries and infrastructure, member countries aim to accelerate innovation while maintaining technological sovereignty.
Events like the BRICS Quantum Summit offer forums for exchange, partnership-building, and the creation of a shared quantum ecosystem. According to the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education, these forums are key to elevating global scientific dialogue.
Toward 2030: Russia’s Global Quantum Ambitions
With geopolitical tensions reshaping the flow of technology, BRICS countries are positioning themselves as alternative innovation hubs. Russia’s long-term strategy includes deeper integration with India and China in quantum hardware and cloud-based services.
Analysts project that BRICS nations could claim up to 20% of the global quantum market by 2030 if current investment trends continue. Russian companies such as Rosquantorg and Quark are already co-developing quantum processors and services with international partners.
From Collaboration to Commercialization
Through research labs, joint projects, and strategic diplomacy, Russia is embedding itself in the global quantum landscape. These initiatives not only advance scientific knowledge but also have the potential to reshape how secure data is transmitted and protected in the years ahead.
