Next-Generation QKD Systems

Expected Outcome:

This action will strengthen Europe's strategic autonomy in quantum-secure communications by advancing core QKD technologies and integration capabilities. Expected results include:

• Development and demonstration of next-generation QKD systems, with a focus on cost-effectiveness and integration, with specific measurable improvements in one of the following parameters or features: (i) key rate (>1 Mbps over metropolitan distances), (ii) operational coverage of a network at the regional scale, >300 km for fibre-based QKD, including e.g. twin field and free-space links also for non-wired segments and for redundancy, (iii) development and demonstration of advanced quantum cryptographic protocols beyond QKD with provable security advantage over classical cryptographic systems. Implementation of hybrid quantum-classical cryptographic frameworks combining QKD and post-quantum cryptography (PQC), tested on clearly defined real-world applications.
• Integration of quantum communication components with network equipment and orchestration systems (e.g., software-defined networking).
• Validation of QKD-based security in high-priority use cases beyond EuroQCI infrastructure, including: • Critical infrastructure monitoring (e.g., energy grid telemetry),
• Long-term secure cloud storage,
• Industrial control systems (e.g., transport, manufacturing),
• Secure multi-site enterprise communications.
• Strengthened European supply chain through the development of certifiable, standardised, and scalable QKD components.

Trimmed here, the full scope, expected outcomes and award criteria are on the official topic page ↗.