Quantum Technologies Key Opportunities for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains 2025

Early quantum technology case studies (non-exhaustive) across supply chains CASE STUDY 9 Optimizing supply chain logistics using quantum computing at the Port of Los Angeles The Port of Los Angeles, the largest container port in the US, serves as a critical hub for global supply chains. With over 10 million containers processed annually, even small inefficiencies can cascade into major delays and significant costs for manufacturers and logistics partners. Traditional scheduling systems at the port struggled to adapt to dynamic conditions, leading to long truck wait times, excessive crane movements and underused resources. To address increasing volumes, unpredictable arrivals and growing complexity in scheduling, the team at Pier 300, one of the port’s largest terminals, reimagined their logistics strategy. Pier 300 implemented a new optimization engine based on hybrid quantum computing annealers, which have 99.999% availability. This system simulates and analyses over 100,000 cargo-handling scenarios and optimizes truck-to-crane assignments. Resource use improved significantly when compared to the scheduling system previously in use, with crane use reduced by nearly 40%, leading to lower labour and equipment costs. Operational productivity increased, as each crane’s average daily travel distance dropped by nearly one-third, and container deliveries per crane rose by more than 60%. For truckers and logistics partners, average pickup times fell by nearly 10 minutes per visit, and in some cases, wait times reduced by up to two hours. These gains translated into substantial business value, including tens of millions of dollars in annual savings and increased asset value for the terminal. This case study demonstrates that quantum computing can unlock new levels of efficiency in complex supply chain environments.28 Layering quantum optimization into our truck- to-crane appointing process proved remarkably effective. Every few minutes across two shifts daily, a D-Wave quantum computer intelligently appoints trucks to specific cranes, solving these hard optimization problems in real time. We’ve achieved measurable efficiency gains with solid KPIs, demonstrating quantum computing’s practical value in logistics. Ed Heinbockel, Chief Executive Officer, SavantX CASE STUDY 10 Strengthening of manufacturing and supply chain operations with quantum-enabled navigation Modern manufacturing and supply chain operations increasingly depend on precise navigation systems to ensure efficiency, safety and continuity. However, the growing threats such as GPS jamming and spoofing have exposed vulnerabilities in satellite- based navigation, posing critical operations at risk across sectors such as aerospace, automotive, electronics and logistics. To address these challenges, industry leaders and government agencies are validating alternative solutions that can operate independently of satellite signals. One such approach involves quantum magnetometer sensor-based navigation, which uses the Earth’s magnetic field to provide robust, un-jammable positioning. A leading example is the US Air Force’s validation of this technology through over 200 hours of flight tests, more than 40 sorties, and participation in large-scale exercises across diverse aircraft and geographies. These trials demonstrated the technology’s ability to deliver reliable navigation in GPS- denied environments and its readiness for integration into critical platforms.29 The implications extend beyond aerospace. As autonomous vehicles and advanced robotics become central to logistics, companies require navigation systems that are resilient to signal interference and adaptable to diverse environments. Embedding quantum navigation modules into vehicles and industrial systems supports safer operations, real-time asset tracking and uninterrupted workflows. Hence, by adopting quantum-enabled navigation, manufacturers and supply chain operators can reduce operational risk, enhance product reliability and support the digital transformation of their industries.Quantum computing Quantum sensing Quantum Technologies: Key Opportunities for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains 18