This paper from the QTN Series examines batteries as a critical technology. Dr Jeffrey Wilson identifies that the global value chains that produce batteries are insecure and argues that while all the Quad countries recognise the need for secure battery value chains, they are yet to align their strategies. He concludes that a Quad battery partnership should be developed to secure this critical 21st century technology.

About the Quad Tech Network

The Quad Tech Network (QTN) is an Australian Government initiative to promote Track 2 research and public dialogue on cyber and critical technology issues relevant to the Indo-Pacific region.

As part of the initiative, research institutions in Australia (the National Security College at The Australian National University), India (the Observer Research Foundation), Japan (the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies) and the United States (Center for a New American Security) have commissioned papers on key issues facing the region.

These papers – together, the QTN series – offer analysis and recommendations on shared challenges facing Australia and Indo-Pacific partners in the cyber and technology environment.

The QTN is managed by the National Security College at The Australian National University, with the support of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.