Quantum technology is no longer science fiction — it’s becoming a strategic driver of competitiveness, security, and innovation across Europe. Through the EU Quantum Pact, the region is investing heavily in research and development to stay at the forefront of this technological shift. For Norway, the challenge and the opportunity lies in transforming this potential into real-world value for ocean industries where the country already leads globally.
In August 2025, the Norwegian government, led by Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, announced a landmark NOK 1 billion national investment in quantum technology. The initiative was presented at KONGSBERG’s facilities in Trondheim — underscoring both the strategic importance and national security potential of quantum innovation.
Kongsberg Discovery is driving innovation across the full spectrum of ocean technologies.
This November, KONGSBERG joins SNIC 2025 as a Gold Sponsor, with Terje Nilsen, Director of Disruptive Technologies, Kongsberg Discovery, taking the stage in Session 1: The Connected Fleet – Risk and Opportunities. His presentation will look five to ten years ahead, exploring how quantum sensing could transform fleet performance and decision-making at sea.
“I am excited to be in Singapore this week to meet with stakeholders and learn more about the quantum ecosystem in Asia.”
– Terje Nilsen, Director of Disruptive Technologies, Kongsberg Discovery
Nilsen brings to SNIC a dual perspective: as both a technologist looking ten years ahead, and a Norwegian industry leader helping shape the national conversation on quantum innovation. Earlier this year, Nilsen and his colleagues at KONGSBERG took part in a parliamentary dialogue on Norway’s priorities for quantum technology. Their message was clear: collaboration between government, academia, and industry is essential to build a strong national strategy. In the accompanying KONGSBERG report, “The Ecosystem Surrounding Quantum Technology,” they outline how closer Nordic cooperation and targeted investment can turn research excellence into competitive advantage.
Kongsberg Discovery’s Terje Nilsen (centre) in conversation with industry peers.
Preparing for a Quantum-Enabled Maritime Future
For the maritime world, the implications are transformative. Quantum sensing could deliver navigation and environmental data with atom-level precision, while quantum computing could unlock fleet and port-wide optimisation previously unimaginable. Combined with in-situ AI — data processing directly onboard — these breakthroughs could redefine performance, safety, and sustainability at sea.
At SNIC 2025, Terje Nilsen will explore how these emerging technologies may reshape shipping in the next decade and invite the audience to look ahead: How can Norway and the global maritime community prepare for a quantum-enabled future?