SEQRET | Secure and Industrialized Quantum Key Distribution for European Telecom Networks

With the development of quantum technology as one of its main components comes the prospect of quantum computers capable of breaking current cryptographic algorithms. From the perspective of a telecommunications operator, this means the need to adapt to new threats and implement solutions to ensure data security in the long term.

Despite the early stage of development of quantum computers, the weaknesses of currently used encryption methods are becoming increasingly important. As a result, there is a need to implement encryption to address the above-mentioned threats. One example is Store Now Decrypt Later activities, which involve collecting encrypted data and holding it until it can be decrypted. When data is considered sensitive for a long period of time, it appears that the danger from quantum computers is closer than many think.

QKD offers very high security for generated keys, as it will allow secure key exchange based on the laws of physics rather than the level of complexity of the algorithms. In the approximate absence of security vulnerabilities due to the physical implementation of the chosen protocol, it will provide high-end security, as any attempt at eavesdropping will be detectable in the form of increased system noise. This is a level of security that ensures that the system’s resilience is independent on the attacker’s computing power.

EXATEL approach

As part of the SEQRET project, as a telecommunications network operator, we play a key role in providing real-world requirements that influence the product design stages, ensuring that the product is aligned with market needs. In addition, we participate in the validation and testing of the final solution under real-world conditions. This enables the full integration of the QKD devices under development into the existing technological infrastructure, contributing to building cyber security in Europe.

The project focuses on the development of QKD systems based on so-called Continuous Variable QKD (CV-QKD), which can operate using standard telecommunications technology minimizing the changes needed in existing fiber-optic networks and enabling the interoperability of classical and quantum communications.

SEQRET aims to develop and industrialize the QKD systems, enabling its production on a wider scale and ensuring a secure manufacturing process. The project also emphasizes aspects such as a hybrid approach to combine QKD with post-quantum encryption (PQC) algorithms and the scalability of solutions through the use of photonic integrated circuits. The aim is to reduce cost, device size and power consumption which will form the basis for larger-scale production.

An important goal of the project is also to develop security proofs for the planned QKD solutions and to prepare the documentation necessary for the certification process according to international standards, which will make the devices developed under SEQRET the world’s first certified QKD systems.

SEQRET project is part of the EuroQCI initiative to establish a secure quantum communications network in Europe in cooperation with other partners and projects.

General information about project

Project title: SEQRET – Secure and Industrialized Quantum Key Distribution for European Telecom Networks.

Project aim: SEQRET aims to develop and industrialize the QKD systems, enabling its production on a wider scale and ensuring a secure manufacturing process.

Program: Horyzont 2020

Funding Agreement number: 10109159

The amount of qualifying project costs is: 756 918,00 EUR

The value of the funding for EXATEL SA is: 378 459,00 EUR

Project implementation period: 01.01.2023- 30.09.2025

The project incurred costs related to:

1. Salaries of the project R&D personnel
2. Subcontracted work
3. R&D equipment
4. Project delegations
5. Indirect costs