Putting quantum key distribution into space is seen a possible solution to the technology’s limited range of 100km and a pragmatic way to provide global coverage
Colt Technology Services (Colt), Honeywell and Nokia are collaborating to explore quantum-safe networking using satellite communications. The companies are planning to test new ways of protecting encrypted optical network traffic from risks presented when quantum computing potentially breaks traditional encryption methods, leaving data vulnerable to cyber threats.
Traditional encryption methods are potentially vulnerable to quantum computers which can ‘crack the code’ – solve the mathematic problems faster – thereby exposing data to risk.
Quantum key distribution (QKD) technology is seen as a possible way to prevent this and is central to the development of quantum technologies. However, QKD has a major limitation: terrestrial physical constraints restrict its range to around 100km.
The thinking is that this limitation can be overcome to achieve global coverage by moving it into space. Colt, Honeywell and Nokia plan to explore quantum-safe cryptography, trialling space-based and subsea techniques which are resistant to quantum computing attacks.
QKD in space and subsea
The companies will trial QKD using low-Earth orbit satellites (LEOs) for ultra-long distances and transatlantic reach. The three companies have a collective goal:enabling customers to benefit from quantum computing; solve pressing challenges; and protecting them from risk.
They expect the trial to interest organisations responsible for vast amounts of highly sensitive data such as financial firms, healthcare and pharmaceutical organisations and government bodies.
“Fundamental to the collaboration between Colt, Honeywell and Nokia is a shared passion and determination to push the boundaries of technology to find solutions which safeguard our customers and help them succeed. At Colt, we do everything we can to make life easier for our customers. It’s why we’re taking action now to protect our customers from future cybersecurity risks, tackling tomorrow’s threats, today,” said Buddy Bayer, Chief Operating Officer, Colt Technology Services.
“This collaboration represents a significant step forward in securing the future of critical data: designing solutions to enhance resilience, ensuring long-term data security for critical infrastructure and communications systems,” said Lisa Napolitano, VP and GM, Space, Honeywell Aerospace Technologies.
“Quantum computing brings great promise, but it’s also a potential threat to the encryption models on which society has relied so far. This collaboration with Colt and Honeywell shows how space-based quantum-safe technologies can help protect networks, safeguarding sensitive information across every domain against future quantum threats,” added James Watt, VP and GM, Optical Networks at Nokia.
Ahead of the trial, Colt, Honeywell and Nokia have drafted a white paper with more detail on the risks, threats and opportunities presented by quantum cryptography. The paper, The Journey to Quantum-Safe Networking, is available to download here.
The announcement follows a pilot Colt announced in March to explore quantum-secure networking across terrestrial networks.
