Futuristic view of the Internet of Quantum Drones: Review, challenges and research agenda

The disruptive technology of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, is a trend with increasing applications and practical relevance in the current and future society. Despite the common interest in drones for commercial deliveries, the use of this disruptive technology can be examined in the contexts of other world strategic demands such as climate change issues and traffic management. As of very recently, some drone-related futuristic disruptive technologies, including quantum drones (QD), the Internet of Quantum Drones (IoQDs), and a constellation of quantum satellites (CQS), are expected to be a breakthrough technology in strategic areas of society. However, prior research has not adequately examined and explored the potential applications of these drone-related futuristic disruptive technologies for social concern. Therefore, this study investigates how QD, IoQDs, and CQS can be applied in new contexts in real-time applications in strategic areas of societal interest, especially during the quantum age. Overall, our results unveil new potential and advanced applications to drone-related disruptive technologies in recognized and new contexts. Two relevant implications are highlighted. First, this research inaugurates new contexts regarding the use of drone-related technologies enabled by the Internet in themes of economic and social concerns. Second, from a futuristic point of view, the study examines the main challenges, risks, and advantages of the practical use of these technologies. We conclude this research with a summary of the main gaps and scientific challenges to the field and propose opportunities for future research.