Quantum Communications Could Safeguard US Nuclear Submarines & Deter a Surprise Attack

(PopularMechanics) Researchers at the University of Ottowa have discovered that quantum communications are possible with submerged objects in turbulent water. The revelation means it might someday be possible for the National Command Authority to use quantum communications to securely communicate with underwater submarines, particularly those that make up part of the nuclear triad.
Quantum communications is the practical application of quantum theory to create a super-secure means of communication. Nuclear submarines could especially use this new quantum communications technology. The U.S. Navy operates 14 Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines, with at least five to six at sea at any given time. A submarine at sea is America’s ace in the hole in a nuclear war–ensuring that hundreds of nuclear warheads can survive a surprise nuclear attack on the U.S. The idea is that this strategy deters an enemy from launching an attack in the first place. All of this makes secure, reliable communications with submarines extremely important.
Quantum communications is enough to send simple, coded messages to submarines at sea. China is also reportedly looking into quantum communications to communicate with its submarines.