In a groundbreaking initiative, the European Union (EU) has unveiled the Nostradamus project to spearhead a new era of high-level cybersecurity through quantum technology. Led by Deutsche Telekom, this industry consortium comprises prominent names from academia and companies like Thales and the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology. The primary objective is to establish a robust network of quantum-safe communications.
The consortium’s focus will be on constructing testing infrastructure for quantum key distribution (QKD) and evaluating QKD devices manufactured in Europe. Quantum key distribution has gained recognition as an exceptionally secure method of communication and data transfer. By utilizing quantum light particles, it generates random keys that effectively encrypt and decrypt transmitted data, greatly minimizing the risk of interception.
Markus Pflitsch, founder and CEO of Terra Quantum and former CERN scientist, expressed his unwavering belief in the superiority of QKD over Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC). According to Pflitsch, “In the quantum age, only true QKD protocols can provide the ultimate security needed to protect our critical infrastructure and data.”
Ultimately, Nostradamus aims to lay the groundwork for the implementation of EuroQCI, a comprehensive pan-European communications network built on quantum technology. This transformative network will leverage both terrestrial and satellite systems to enhance security for various realms such as communications, data centers, and critical infrastructure like governmental institutions, energy grids, and hospitals.
While Nostradamus focuses on operational QKD technologies, the space-based segment is led by the European Space Agency (ESA). The ESA is spearheading the development of Eagle 1, the first European satellite based on QKD technology. Additionally, the future encrypted EU satellite network IRIS2 will rely on EuroQCI, providing governments with secure communications services and a network for critical infrastructure.
Prominent figures in the industry emphasize the importance of fostering collaboration between major European companies to ensure long-term technological sovereignty. Pflitsch highlights the role of collaborations, stating, “These collaborations will be instrumental in ensuring Europe has a vibrant and secure quantum ecosystem.”
The EU’s Nostradamus project signifies a critical step forward in cybersecurity, paving the way for advanced quantum technologies that will revolutionize the protection of critical infrastructure and data.
The source of the article is from the blog cheap-sound.com