Lockheed Martin, Xanadu launch quantum AI push for defense edge

Lockheed Martin and quantum computing firm Xanadu have launched a collaborative research initiative aimed at advancing Quantum Machine Learning (QML), particularly focusing on quantum-powered generative models. These models, which learn data patterns to generate realistic outputs, currently rely on classical AI techniques that demand large datasets and significant computational resources, limiting their effectiveness in data-scarce or sensitive environments. The partnership seeks to explore whether quantum-native operations—such as Fourier-based methods unavailable to classical systems—can enable more efficient learning, reduce data requirements, and uncover new patterns beyond classical AI capabilities. This research sits at the intersection of quantum theory and advanced machine learning, with potential applications spanning defense, finance, and pharmaceutical sectors. The collaboration emphasizes foundational theory, aiming to rethink how quantum computers can represent and process information in higher-dimensional spaces. Lockheed Martin highlights the national security implications, as quantum-enhanced models could improve sensing, data fusion, and decision-support technologies critical to defense. Beyond defense, these advances may benefit industries reliant on complex