ESA and European Commission to establish secure quantum communications network

ESA and European Commission to establish secure quantum communications network
by Erica Marchand
Paris, France (SPX) Jan 31, 2025

The European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Commission have finalized negotiations to advance the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI), paving the way for its development. EuroQCI is a state-of-the-art network designed to secure personal data and safeguard Europe's critical infrastructure through the application of quantum physics principles.

The initiative will employ quantum key distribution (QKD) to ensure the security of sensitive government communications and infrastructure. QKD is a method that relies on quantum physics to detect interception attempts, significantly enhancing cybersecurity.

EuroQCI is set to play a crucial role in protecting power grids, emergency response networks, and other essential services. The initiative aligns with the EU's Digital Decade objectives, aiming to establish Europe as a leader in quantum technology by 2030.

EuroQCI will function through a dual-system approach. On the ground, it will integrate quantum-secured enhancements into existing fiber-optic networks. In space, ESA is spearheading the development of a quantum-enabled satellite constellation under the Optical and Quantum Communications - Scylight program, extending secure communications across Europe and beyond.

A key component of this endeavor is ESA's Security And cryptoGrAphic mission (SAGA), which will validate space-based quantum technologies in orbit. In collaboration with an industrial consortium led by SES Techcom and the European Commission, ESA is also supporting the development of Eagle-1, the first satellite dedicated to space-based QKD, slated for launch in 2026.

EuroQCI has gained unanimous support from all 27 EU Member States, reinforcing its significance for Europe's future. The European Commission initiated the first phase of EuroQCI's implementation in 2023, with future steps focusing on its gradual integration into IRIS, Europe's upcoming secure satellite constellation.

"Today, we celebrate the successful conclusion of negotiations and the signing of this Agreement, a pivotal step forward that highlights the power of partnership in achieving ambitious goals," said Josef Aschbacher, ESA's Director General.

"Through our collaboration with the European Commission and Member States, we will ensure EuroQCI sets the global standard for secure and innovative quantum communication. ESA will lead the Contracting, Design, and Qualification authority, developing EuroQCI to protect critical information and assets, and spearheading R and D activities in space-based quantum technologies."

Laurent Jaffart, ESA's Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications, stated: "By integrating quantum-based systems into existing infrastructures, EuroQCI will create a secure communication layer resistant to emerging cyber threats, advancing Europe's cybersecurity strategy and strengthening our leadership in quantum technologies."

Roberto Viola, the European Commission's Director-General of Communications Networks, Content and Technology, remarked: "Yesterday, the Commission had announced the Competitiveness Compass, the key policy agenda for the coming years, which includes maintaining a leading position in quantum technologies.

"I therefore welcome the agreement with ESA under the EuroQCI, which brings us one step closer to realising our vision in quantum and more specifically of a quantum safe communication network for Europe based on terrestrial and satellite technologies. This agreement builds on our long-standing partnership with ESA in key space technologies and applications such as Copernicus, Galileo and IRIS initiative."