The European Quantum Technology Conference (EQTC 2024) taking place from 18th to 20th November 2024 at Culturgest in Lisbon and promoted by the Quantum Flagship, represented the perfect setting where to showcase the live trial of the QKD-enabled quantum secure communications over combined live terrestrial and submarine fibre optics in the metropolitan area of Lisbon.
Thanks to a collaboration among QTI, Telsy – the TIM Enterprise’s centre of excellence for secure communications and cybersecurity, and MEO – the leading Portuguese telecommunications operator, a three-node QKD link was deployed to enhance security of existing networks.
QTI’s Quell-X devices were used to protect the traffic generated by a live videoconference enabled by TelsyAntares platform developed by Telsy and connecting Culturgest – the EQTC venue, to Sesimbra – a cable landing station (CLS) managed by MEO. A trusted node was established in Carcavelos to enable the long-haul QKD link. The solution was implemented on a combined terrestrial and submarine fibre optic network provided by MEO, which was able to adapt to the particular geographical conditions of the metropolitan area of Lisbon, thereby optimizing communications security in a complex urban setting.
The initiative is part of the European project QUantum ecOsystems – EQUO, the EuroQCI industrial consortium led by the TIM Group and focused on the design, development and testing of advanced QKD solutions that can be integrated into telecommunication networks.
“Thanks to the power of quantum technology and our advanced QKD systems, we are helping to set a new standard in data security, positioning Europe as a leader in the quantum security ecosystem. The EQTC conference was the ideal setting to present this significant implementation”
“At Telsy, we are committed to driving innovation in next-generation cybersecurity. This initiative demonstrates the effectiveness of Quantum Key Distribution applied to terrestrial and submarine connections, achieving a significant milestone for quantum-level secure communications and ensuring important technological advances for real telecommunication networks and cross-border interconnections”
"MEO has a proven track record of innovation in areas highly relevant to quantum technologies. We intend to leverage on our extensive nationwide terrestrial and submarine fiber infrastructure, and in our longtime expertise in optical and satellite systems, data centers and cybersecurity, to foster the deployment of quantum communication technologies at scale. This trial is an important step for us in that direction"
By combining QTI’s cutting-edge quantum technology, Telsy’s expertise in cybersecurity, and MEO’s robust network infrastructure, this initiative demonstrates a significant leap towards the adoption of quantum-resistant cybersecurity solutions. Furthermore, the trial underscored the European Union’s commitment to advancing communication security with quantum-level protection, paving the way for more secure and resilient infrastructures.
