The forum for quantum communication in Germany
At the ‘Forum for Quantum Communication in Germany’ on 17.10.24 at the Fraunhofer HHI, State Secretary Dr Roland Philippi emphasised the central role of research funding by the BMBF. This is crucial for strengthening IT security and technological sovereignty. The event was organised by the BMBF-funded networks QR.X, QuNET and SQuaD and brought together leading representatives from research, industry and start-ups. The aim was to highlight prospects for quantum communication in Germany and present concrete progress.
The QuNET initiative demonstrated quantum-secured data transmission in Berlin’s inner-city network, a possible approach for the secure transmission of personal data in digital government services. QR.X presented quantum teleportation as a technological cornerstone for future quantum networks. The SQuaD umbrella project provided information about its support for technology transfer and the development of an innovation ecosystem for quantum communication in Germany. The forum’s selected discussion topics included research & development, transfer & value creation, data sovereignty, IT security research, training & careers and EU & international perspectives. Research projects and industry from the field of quantum communication were presented at kiosks.
In order to promote exchange within the forum and to honour the BMBF’s pioneering funding strategy, an impulse paper on the topic of quantum communication was drawn up from the midst of the research and industry ecosystem in the run-up to the forum and ceremoniously presented to the BMBF State Secretary Dr Roland Philippi at the event.
You can find more information about the event at the BMBF and the Fraunhofer HHI.
Flight campaign #1 of key experiment 3 - quantum communication in the air
The video shows the completed preparations for the third key experiment of the QuNET initiative: acceptances, tests, certifications and the installation of the optical communication terminal in a Dornier 228. The aircraft of the DLR research fleet is used as a mobile node to establish an optical link to a ground station. The aim is to demonstrate and further develop mobile quantum communication using QKD.
More information on the current experiment can be found here: Link.
QuNET general meeting 2024
The DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation hosted the QuNET General Assembly 2024 in Oberpfaffenhofen. The two-day event provided updates on the latest project developments. A poster session provided an ideal opportunity to exchange technical details and deepen both new and existing partnerships. The lab tour gave participants the opportunity to experience the ongoing work at QuNET first-hand. They visited the German Space Operations Centre, the Optical Ground Station Oberpfaffenhofen, the DLR Do228 aircraft with installed laser terminal and the Fraunhofer IOF QuBUS with an adaptive optics system.
Start of the second key experiment of the QuNET initiative for secure quantum communication
QuNET has started the main phase of the second key experiment to develop highly secure QKD-based communication systems. For the first time, several users in the Berlin metropolitan region, including the sites of Fraunhofer HHI, Deutsche Telekom and the Bundesdruckerei Group, will be connected quantum securely via 125 km of fibre optic and free beam connections.
The experiment marks an important milestone for secure communication networks in Germany. Dr Nino Walenta leads the team of 30 researchers. Read more about quantum research and the key experiment 2 in the press release of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research BMBF.
All core institutes in Berlin united for the start of the SE2 experiments
All five core institutes of the QuNET initiative are on site in Berlin to finalise the last set-ups and preparations for the SE2 experiments. The actual experiments, which will begin on 16 September, represent a significant step in the development of quantum-safe communication networks in Germany.
At the Heinrich Hertz Institute (HHI), Nino Walenta is leading the SE2 experiments. The HHI is applying its expertise in photonic technologies. The Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering (IOF) contributes to the development of optical systems for quantum communication, which are necessary for high transmission reliability. The DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation is significantly involved in the integration of QKD systems into existing networks, in particular through research in the field of satellite-based quantum communication.
The Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light (MPL) and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) are working closely together to develop innovative solutions for quantum key distribution (QKD).
Key experiment of the QuNET initiative: Highly secure quantum communication in an urban environment
Starting signal for ground-breaking quantum communication experiment in Berlin
As part of the third large-scale experiment, an urban network with several users in the Berlin metropolitan region will be connected for the first time in a quantum-safe manner via point-to-point connections. The Fraunhofer HHI sites at Einstein- and Salzufer as well as Deutsche Telekom and Bundesdruckerei GmbH will be connected via a 125 km long fibre optic network and additional free beam connections in the air.
A particular focus is on investigating how digital services in the quantum age can be made highly secure through collaboration with Bundesdruckerei GmbH. Sensitive data is exchanged between various institutions in Berlin and protected by quantum cryptography.
Complete overview of the key experiment: Link
Start of the last QuNET+ projects
The kick-off meetings for ICLink, BlueCert and OptiRoute took place at various locations in March
The QuNET+ICLink kick-off meeting took place on 5 March 2024 at the Institute of Solid State Physics at TU Berlin. Participating institutions such as Skyline Photonics GmbH and the Technical Physics Department of Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg came together to present their projects and work packages and to discuss interfaces between the partners. Even though no photos of the event are available, the participation of renowned institutions shows the great interest and commitment to the development of quantum communication systems.
The QuNET+BluCert project started with a successful kickoff on 13 and 14 March at BearingPoint’s German headquarters in Frankfurt am Main. The kickoff included presentations from all partner organisations as well as three different workshops that paved the way for the upcoming challenges in this project. The project focuses on building a certification lab for quantum key distribution (QKD) technology to overcome the certification hurdles and promote the acceptance of this technology.
The QuNET+OptiRoute project was successfully launched on 21 March with a kick-off meeting at the Nokia site in Nuremberg. Michael Bärnreuther, project coordinator, emphasised the importance of highly secure communication with quantum technology. The project focuses on simultaneously routing conventional and quantum signals in fibre optic networks in order to advance quantum communication. Nokia is working with partners such as FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg and the Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute HHI to tackle the challenges over the next three years.
Specialist group meeting of the QuNET initiative
QuNET develops highly secure communication systems based on the latest quantum technology.
In the first week of March, experts Dr Nino Walenta, Jan Krause, Dr Andy Schreier, Stephanie Renneke, Jerome Wiesemann, Dr Moritz Kleinert, Martin Kresse, Dr Patrick Runge and Pascal Rustige met with 54 participants from industry and research as part of the QuNET initiative, including their 12 QuNET+ projects, in our Science Tech Space showroom.
The discussion on how a QKD network for the secure exchange of information between authorities can be realised was particularly exciting. Important research needs were identified in various working groups and future key experiments were planned.
QuNET-Initiative beim Besuch des deutschen Bundespräsidenten
Fraunhofer IOF presents quantum key distribution model to the Federal President as part of the QuNET initiative for highly secure communication systems and emphasises the pioneering role of quantum research in global communication systems.
The QuNET initiative, which is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, is developing the foundations for highly secure quantum communication systems using state-of-the-art quantum technology. The systems for practically tap-proof communication can thus pave the way for long-term data security and technological sovereignty.
On the occasion of the Federal President’s visit to Fraunhofer IOF last week, QuNET researchers presented a model for quantum key distribution (QKD). It demonstrated the exchange of quantum keys between a satellite and two ground stations. Such a system could one day form the basis for a global quantum network.
Frank-Walter Steinmeier was able to experience the exhibit and the research behind it up close and observe how interference signals can be detected by changing the quantum states.
Fraunhofer IOF is also researching the future of communication with quanta in other projects such as HYPERSPACE, thus emphasising the importance of quantum research in the field of global communication systems.
San Francisco /30 January to 01 February 2024
QuNET initiative at the SPIE Photonics West 2024
The QuNET initiative presented its current systems for secure quantum communication at the largest international trade fair for photonic technologies.
From 30 January to 1 February, SPIE Photonics West, the largest international trade fair for the latest developments in the field of optical and photonic technologies, invited representatives from research and industry to San Francisco. The QuNET initiative was also represented at the trade fair with its current technology systems for secure quantum communication.
The consortium was able to show interested visitors the range of its current research into highly secure communication systems using various exhibits. For example, the transmission of entangled quantum states between a satellite and two ground stations was clearly demonstrated using a model for quantum key transmission (QKD). This illustrated the potential of quantum technologies and the systems developed by the QuNET initiative in the field of practically tap-proof communication.
QuNET Initiative at Cyber Security Summit 2023
Quantum key transmission in focus: QuNET initiative presents innovative technologies for secure communication at the Cyber Security Council. Demonstration of quantum key exchange and insight into miniaturized light guides and optics.
On 28 November, the National Cybersecurity Council invited representatives from business, science, politics and civil society to the Cybersecurity Council in Berlin. The QuNET initiative was also on site with an exciting setup for quantum key distribution.
The use of innovative technologies to encrypt data is especially important in the areas of security and defense. To this end, the QuNET initiative is developing highly secure communication systems based on modern quantum technologies.
At the Cyber Security Summit, the QuNET consortium presented a demonstration of a quantum key exchange from one satellite to two ground stations. It was not only possible to learn about quantum state transfer, but also to interact practically with the structure, e.g. by blocking a transmission path. Miniaturized light guides and optics could also be admired through a microscope that showed a transmitter chip for quantum key transmission (QKD).
QuNET Initiative at the Digital Summit 2023
Quantum communication to protect digital communications: QuNET initiative presents innovative exhibits on quantum key transmission at the Digital Summit 2023. The development of highly secure systems contributes to the defense of cyber attacks and the protection of the digital society.
Am 20. and On 21 November, the Digital Summit 2023, Market of Digital Opportunities, took place in Jena. Visitors were able to experience a simulation of quantum communication at the Digital Summit, using quantum key exchange between two satellites and a ground station. You could also take a look through a microscope into the world of miniaturized light guides and optics that make up the transmitter chip for key transmission.
Secure communication systems are the core of a digital society. Whether it is the exchange of confidential messages between authorities or the long-term storage of sensitive (company) data: data protection and security are the backbone of the digital society and form the basis of an economy based on innovation.
The QuNET initiative develops highly secure systems based on state-of-the-art quantum technology to protect digital communications from cyber attacks, for example. As part of the Digital Summit, the research consortium will present exciting exhibits on quantum key transmission (QKD).
Third QuNET General Assembly in Jena
QuNET consortia discuss project development and future plans at the third general meeting in Jena. Successful key experiment in ad-hoc hybrid-heterogeneous quantum key transmission networks presented.
The third general meeting of the QuNET/QuNET+ consortia took place in Jena from November 9th to 10th. Representatives of the five core institutes: Fraunhofer IOF; Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute HHI; German Aerospace Center e.V. DLR; Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Light and FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg as well as employees and researchers of the QuNET+ projects, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, the VDI e.V./VDE spoke about the project development, initial successes and of course about how the projects will develop in the future.
Matthias Goy, researcher at Fraunhofer IOF, gave a lecture on the first successful key experiment 1 on ad-hoc hybrid-heterogeneous quantum key transmission (QKD) networks in metropolitan areas. Our institute director Andreas Tünnermann also reported on current results from the steering committee and took a first look into the future of the QuNET projects. During the meeting, the next key experiments for 2024 and 2025 were also discussed.
In addition, there were two exciting workshops for the participants. The workshop of the Quantum Communication Germany “SQuaD” project focused on technology transfer and standardization. In a qp-tech.edu training course on the topic of “Introduction to quantum technologies”, the participants dealt with quantum imaging, quantum sensors and metrology. The theoretical impulses were underpinned by practical experiments.
“This was the first face-to-face meeting of this kind for the QuNET initiative. It was therefore impressive to see how closely the individual projects have already grown together and are working towards a common goal,” summarizes Dr. Friederike Fohlmeister (DLR), the third QuNET general meeting.
Towards secure communication of the future
Researchers from Jena, Berlin, Erlangen and Wessling have successfully exchanged quantum keys between two points using a combination of free-space and fiber connections. The experiment was carried out as part of the QuNET initiative, a pilot project funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).
Another milestone has been reached on the way to highly secure communication of the future. In a key experiment, the institutes involved – the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Light, the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, the DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation as well as the two Fraunhofer Institutes for Applied Optics and Precision Mechanics IOF and the Heinrich Hertz Institute HHI – showed that quantum-secure point-to-point connections can be realized. As part of a key experiment, they established a quantum-secure connection on a test track almost two kilometers long in Jena. They combined transmissions of quantum keys via free-space and fiber connections and achieved transmission rates in the kilobit range per second during the day.
To gain an insight into what was happening, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and VDI/VDE Innovation Technology visited the experiment in Jena on May 23, 2023. Daniel Behrendt (BMBF), Dirk Ziemann (BMBF), Fabienne Haupert (VDI/VDE) and Kristian Döbrich (VDI/VDE) visited the laboratories and locations of the experiment. The representatives of the individual institutes – Florian Moll (DLR), Ömer Bayraktar (MPL), Nino Walenta (HHI), Anja Milde, Andreas Tünnermann, Thorsten Goebel, Fabian Steinlechner and Matthias Goy (all IOF) – then discussed current and future challenges in the field of data security and quantum communication with the delegation.
You can find the full press release from Fraunhofer IOF here.
Stark-Watzinger: Secure Germany's place at the forefront of quantum technologies
The federal government, together with scientific organizations, is providing three billion euros for future technology.
The Federal Cabinet today approved the quantum technology action plan. It was developed under the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).
“Quantum technologies are a key technology of the future with enormous potential for our society and economy. Their applications range from the simulation of new drug ingredients to tap-proof communication. With the new action plan, we want to secure Germany’s place at the forefront of quantum technologies and our technological sovereignty. The action plan forms the common political framework and focuses on three fields of action: putting quantum technologies into practice, driving forward technology development in a targeted manner, and creating excellent framework conditions for a strong ecosystem. The Federal Government, together with the scientific organizations, will provide around three billion euros for this purpose.”
Background
The quantum technologies action plan forms the coordinating strategic framework for the Federal Government’s activities in quantum technologies in the years 2023 to 2026. The Federal Government is providing a total of 2.18 billion euros for this purpose. The scientific organizations are contributing 850 million euros. Under the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK), the Federal Ministry of Finance (BMF), the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Home Affairs (BMI), the Federal Ministry of Defense (BMVg), the Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) and the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) contributed to the draft of the action plan.
The cross-departmental concept is divided into three fields of action: The first field of action deals with the development of application-ready products, which will help Germany to take a self-determined path in international competition. The second field of action focuses on targeted technology development. Germany is to become a key player, particularly in the field of quantum computing, and secure future markets by helping to shape standards and norms. The third field of action focuses on promoting a strong ecosystem. The focus here is on founders, networking between science and business, and the creation and expansion of a strong skilled workforce.
More information
www.bmbf.de/handlungskonzept-quantentechnologien
www.quantentechnologien.de/handlungskonzept-quantentechnologien
QuNET at Hannover Messe 2023
After a break of almost three years, the Hannover Messe 2023 took place again in its usual format for the first time. From April 17th to April 21st, around 4,000 companies from mechanical engineering, the electrical and digital industries, and the energy industry presented their technologies and solutions for a networked and climate-neutral industry. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) is also represented there with its QuNET project. Friederike Fohlmeister from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and Roman Mouchel from the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF were on site to answer questions and provide suggestions to the numerous visitors.
Among those interested was Federal Minister of Education and Research Bettina Stark-Watzinger, who visited the stand on the first day of the fair.
National Conference on IT Security Research of the BMBF
The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) is organizing the National Conference on IT Security Research 2023 (#its_konf23) from March 13 to 15, 2023. The motto is: “Strengthening the digitally networked society.”
At the event in Cafe Moskau in Berlin, participants can expect a varied program of scientific and socio-political content in the form of discussions, presentations, exhibitions and workshops.
All important information about the conference can be found here www.forschung-it-sicherheit-kommunikationssysteme.de/nationale-konferenz-it-sicherheitsforschung-2023
Specialist group meeting of the QuNET initiative
From February 28 to March 1, 2023, 65 members of the specialist groups met at the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering in Jena. The aim of the meeting was to exchange information on the latest research. The first day began with a presentation of the overall network architecture and security aspects. This was followed by a presentation of components and interfaces as well as scenarios and key experiments. After each presentation, a World Café was held in which the experts could exchange ideas on the current state of research. The last item on the program was the poster session, with each QuNET+ project being presented using a poster. The first day ended with a shared dinner.
The second day of the meeting focused on the free-beam and fiber systems. After the presentations of these systems, further World Cafés followed, with the focus on the exchange of ideas between the participants. At the end of the meeting, a general summary of the new findings was given, followed by the farewell of the participants.
At the specialist group meeting, many insights were gained, contacts were made and the work of the QuNET initiative was advanced. We would like to thank all participants who contributed to the success of the meeting and look forward to the next meeting.
Start of the Bavarian state initiative »QuKomIn«
The Bavarian project »Quantum communication infrastructure (QuKomIn)« started at the beginning of November 2022. The aim of the initiative is to set up a real test infrastructure for quantum communication in the form of a fiber optic network with satellite connection and application centers in the Erlangen/Nuremberg and Munich/Oberpfaffenhofen area. The specific route of the fiber optic network has already been examined in a feasibility study funded by the Free State of Bavaria. The focus of QuKomIn will be on the needs of the authorities and industrial users. As part of the Bavaria-Saxony-Thuringia state initiatives, QuKomIn is in close communication with the QuNET initiative.
The project is managed by the Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Light in Erlangen. The Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (Department of Physics), the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits, the German Aerospace Center (Institute for Communications and Navigation) and the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (Faculty of Physics) are also involved as project partners. The initiative is funded by the Bavarian State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy with funds totaling around €15 million. The duration is 5 years.
QuNET as exhibitor at SPIE Photonics West 2023
SPIE Photonics West took place in San Francisco, USA, from January 31 to February 1, 2023. It is one of the largest photonics trade fairs in the world and is accompanied by an optics and photonics conference. Around 22,000 visitors from over 85 countries were on site to view the more than 1,400 international exhibitors. The QuNET initiative was also represented there with exhibits and colleagues. Many visitors came to the booth and showed a strong interest in the latest developments in the field of quantum technologies. Exhibits were on display from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) Institute of Communications and Navigation and the Fraunhofer Institute for Optics and Precision Engineering IOF, among others.
Friedrich-Alexander University as fifth consortium partner
Prof. Dr. Christoph Marquardt, sub-project leader at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light (MPL) in Erlangen, has been appointed to the newly created chair for Optical Quantum Technologies at the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU). This means that part of the research group, which is significantly involved in QuNET and develops systems for quantum key exchange and entanglement sources, is moving from the MPL to FAU. FAU has therefore been a consortium partner in the QuNET joint project since January 1, 2023.
Umbrella project SQuaD brings together key partners
Germany is pooling its expertise in quantum communication to enable secure transmission of information. After intensive research in the field of quantum-based key distribution, the technological leap into the economy is now imminent: From September 2022, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research will be funding 36 facilities in the innovation hub for quantum communication to network research institutes and companies. The Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF and its spin-off Quantum Optics Jena are also involved as partners in the accompanying umbrella project Quantum Communication Germany, or SQuaD for short.
SQuaD is coordinated by the Federal Institute of Physics and Technology (PTB) in close cooperation with the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI). Other partners are:
- Keequant GmbH, Fürth
- Quantum Business Network UG, Munich
- Saarland University, Saarbrücken
- Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI, Karlsruhe
- Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF, Jena
- Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute HHI, Berlin
- Leibniz University, Hanover
- Quantum Optics GmbH, Jena
QuNET General Meeting 2022
The QuNET initiative is a pilot project of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) for research into highly secure quantum communication. On Tuesday, 15 November, the partners invite you to the virtual general meeting. The afternoon programme is open to the public and is therefore open to all interested participants.
With its public programme section, the QuNET General Assembly aims to give all interested parties the opportunity to learn more about the partners and goals of the QuNET project. The work of the initiative is also highly interdisciplinary. As a result, new research questions are constantly being identified during the course of the project and integrated into the further course of the initiative. As a result, so-called QuNET+ projects have already been established, which transfer the research results into application under the leadership of an industrial partner. As individual consortia, they complement the central research work of the QuNET partners in the field of tap-proof quantum communication. The General Assembly gives participants the opportunity to familiarise themselves with these QuNET+ projects in detail.
The General Assembly will take place online via MS Teams. Participation is free of charge. The event language is German.
Nobel Prize for quantum research
It was a special moment for an entire research community: quantum researchers Alain Aspect, John F. Clauser and Anton Zeilinger were awarded the 2022 Nobel Prize in Physics. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in Stockholm honoured a field of research that is becoming increasingly important.
The work of the prizewinners, especially Anton Zeilinger, has also inspired researchers at the Fraunhofer IOF. For example, they provided insights for the development of an entangled photon source and the application of quantum entanglement for quantum communication and quantum imaging.
Quantum communication is also at the centre of the QuNET project, a pilot project funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) for research into tap-proof communication. Furthermore, the “InteQuant” project, which is being carried out in cooperation with the Institute of Quantum Optics and Quantum Information IQOQI, is working on the development of innovative hardware for quantum communication.
We would like to express our deepest appreciation to the award winners for their ground-breaking work and thank them for the important contribution they have made to quantum research to date.
Participation in the Federal Government Open Day 2022
Numerous visitors took part in the Federal Government’s Open Day on 20 and 21 August 2022 in Berlin. In addition to the opportunity to take a tour of the building, various projects funded by the BMBF were exhibited. In this context, QuNET presented the topic of quantum key distribution over long distances using satellites. A laboratory model of a satellite transmission unit (laser terminal, original size) for quantum key distribution and the model of a possible ground station for receiving the quantum signal were shown. The entire transmission scenario was presented and technically explained at the stand.
The QuNET initiative stand was visited by Minister Stark-Watzinger on Saturday, the day of the opening. On the following Sunday, State Secretary Judith Pirscher visited the exhibitions. The topic of quantum key distribution met with great interest. Visitors included families, schoolchildren, students and other interested parties. During the open day, there were numerous discussions and a varied exchange of ideas.
First successful exchange of quantum keys between Erfurt and Jena via optical fibre
With eleven million euros, the Thuringian Ministry of Science has supported the development of an infrastructure for quantum communication networks in the Free State. This also includes a fiber-based test track between Jena and Erfurt. Now, partners of the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Mechanics IOF have successfully exchanged quantum keys for the first time on the 75 km track.
The full press release is available at this link.
First version of the QKD ecosystem map for Germany
The first version of the QKD ecosystem map has been released. An overview of all QKD partners in Germany can be found here. To download the complete overview, click on this link. The map is updated once a year to keep the overview of the German QKD landscape up-to-date and accessible.
In order to establish contact with the QKD contact persons in the listed companies and institutions, the QuNET-Office (qunet-office-iof.fraunhofer.de) can be contacted.
Review of 2021, goals for 2022 and new workshop dates
The QuNET initiative, which has been funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research BMBF since 2019, looks back on a successful year in 2021: a first QKD-secure video conference in an official environment was demonstrated between the BSI and the BMBF in Bonn.
The four core institutes of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft FhG-HHI & IOF, the German Aerospace Center DLR-IKN and the Max Planck-Gesellschaft MPG-MPL and, since 2022, other partners from industry and science are continuing to research the physical and technical foundations of quantum key distribution (QKD). The aim is to create greater security and technological sovereignty, especially in official communication application scenarios.
Important for the success of the initiative is to further expand the economic and scientific ecosystem of quantum secure, application-oriented communication using QKD and to attract suitable partners for this purpose. Following the first QuNET partner workshop in April 2021, first so-called QuNET+ projects were launched with the support of the BMBF. These are useful in order to make QKD usable in particular for use in an official context.
In 2022, QuNET+ projects will be launched in an intensified and focused manner in order to exploit the full potential of the German industrial and scientific landscape and to make important contributions to the implementation of the QuNET initiative in synergy with the work of the core institutes.
First quantum-secured video conference between two federal authorities
QuNET initiative demonstrates highly secure and practical quantum communication
It was a foretaste of the communication of the future – or rather: the “data security” of the future. Because when Federal Research Minister Anja Karliczek hosted a video conference with the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) today, everything was apparently the same, at least for outsiders. Together with Andreas Könen, Head of Department CI “Cyber and IT Security” at the Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community (BMI) and BSI Vice President Dr Gerhard Schabhüser, the Minister spoke via video stream.
This video conference opens a new chapter in the highly secure communication of the future. Because what the eye cannot see: The conversation was not encrypted using conventional methods, but by means of light quanta. The trick here is that if an attacker tries to access the keys used for data transmission, the light particles are manipulated. This can be proven by the sender and receiver, thus preventing an eavesdropping attempt. The proof is based on physical principles. If an eavesdropping attack is detected, the key is discarded and a new one generated. This strategy achieves long-term security of the agreed keys. This represents a new milestone for the confidentiality of data in a digital world.
A new chapter for the highly secure communication of the future
This so-called »Quantum communication« especially against the backdrop of future technological developments: Quantum computers and new algorithms are expected to be able to crack conventional data encryption methods in the future. According to the motto “Store now, decrypt later”, data can already be stored today and read out later, e.g. with the help of more powerful computers.
Data with long-term protection requirements, i.e. data that will still be of great value to hackers in the distant future, is particularly at risk. This includes not only information from governments and authorities, but also company secrets and citizens’ personal health data.
Federal Research Minister Anja Karliczek explained:
»Quantum communication is one of the decisive key technologies in IT security and can equip us for future threat scenarios. This is important because security and sovereignty in the network are prerequisites for a stable democracy. That is why I launched the QuNET initiative two years ago. It is an important driver for the implementation of research results from basic research into quantum communication in systems suitable for everyday use. The aim is to create the basis for an ecosystem of manufacturers and providers of quantum communication solutions in Germany with the work of QuNET and the other projects in the field of quantum communication funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research. This will enable us to bring innovative technologies and components into widespread use in a timely manner.«
In order to protect the privacy of citizens, states and companies in the future, there is already a great need for action today. This is not just about developing new and highly secure communication systems based on quantum expertise, but also about finding ways to integrate this new technology into existing IT infrastructures (e.g. fibre optic cables) and taking established cryptographic processes into account. Long distances also pose a particular challenge. Satellites can play a key role here.
Long-term data security through quantum encryption
The QuNET initiative aims to enable long-term data security. Towards this goal, researchers from all participating institutes have now realised the first quantum-based video conference between the BMBF and the BSI in Bonn. The QuNET work focusses on the so-called “quantum key exchange”, also known as QKD (short for “quantum key distribution”). QKD enables the exchange of symmetric keys whose security can be quantified. The BSI is supporting the QuNET initiative and is preparing accompanying and independent test criteria in international cooperation.
At the end of last year, the research organisations involved in the initiative – the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, the Max Planck Society and the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) – presented important foundations for modern and secure communication standards. The scientists have further developed the overall architecture for systems for quantum-safe communication, as well as possibilities for exchanging quantum keys over long, medium and short distances using free-beam and fibre systems.
A new chapter for the highly secure communication of the future
Start: Autumn 2019
Duration: 7 years
Funding organisation: Federal Ministry of Education and Research
Volume: 125 million euros of funding planned
Participating institutes: Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF, Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute (HHI), Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light (MPL), DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation
BMBF initiative QuNET presents systems for highly secure quantum communication
An initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) has been researching new possibilities for tap-proof communication for a year now. The ‘QuNET’ initiative is working on methods for exchanging information between authorities or in critical infrastructures – without third parties being able to eavesdrop. Today, Federal Research Minister Anja Karliczek and the participating research institutes presented the initial results. At a BMBF press conference, they presented the basics of the system architecture and systems for exchanging quantum keys over various distances.
Data security as the foundation of digital democracy
»Protecting the privacy of citizens in the digital world is a top priority for the German government. The security of data exchange is also of fundamental importance for the economy. This security can only be achieved in the long term with the help of quantum communication«, said Federal Research Minister Anja Karliczek at the press conference.
New types of quantum computers pose a threat to tap-proof and tamper-proof data transmission. They will be able to circumvent conventional encryption methods. The technologies of the future are already casting their shadows today: According to the motto ‘Store now, decrypt later’, data can already be stored today and read out later, with the help of more powerful computers or new algorithms.
New types of quantum computers pose a threat to tap-proof and tamper-proof data transmission. They will be able to circumvent conventional encryption methods. The technologies of the future are already casting their shadows today: According to the motto »Store now, decrypt later«, data can already be stored today and read out later, with the help of more powerful computers or new algorithms.
Novel quantum keys enable highly secure encryption
Against this backdrop, the BMBF’s QuNET initiative has been researching the potential of highly secure quantum communication for society and the economy since autumn 2019. The aim is to safeguard Germany’s national technological sovereignty as well as the security and confidentiality of data, even in the face of new communication technologies.
»My goal is to make Germany a world leader in the field of the ‘quantum internet’. Germany can become the European Union’s innovation driver in this field and take us a good step further on our path to technological sovereignty. QuNET is making an important contribution here. Already in the first year, the project developed technologies for a quantum-secured connection between two federal institutions«, said Federal Minister Anja Karliczek.
Over the past year, the research organisations involved in the project – the Max Planck Society, the Fraunhofer Society and the German Aerospace Centre – have jointly developed important foundations for modern and secure communication standards. The scientists looked at the overall architecture for systems for quantum-safe communication as well as the possibilities for exchanging quantum keys over long, medium and short distances using free-beam and fibre systems.
Four institutes contribute their expertise to research into quantum communication
Meanwhile, a team at the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) is researching systems that can transport quantum states over long distances. Aircraft or satellites are used for this, which can bridge large distances, for example within Germany or between different countries, using optical free-beam systems. »In QuNET, we are developing the necessary building blocks, core technologies and concepts for the overall system technology here at DLR«, explains Institute Director Christoph Günther.
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft develops technologies that enable quantum-based communication over short and medium distances, i.e. within a city or metropolitan region. Both free-beam and fibre systems are used for this purpose. »Fibre-based systems make it possible to integrate the latest quantum technology into existing communication networks, such as fibre optic cables«, explains Martin Schell, Director of the Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute HHI in Berlin. Free-beam systems, on the other hand, which are the focus of research at the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF in Jena, can realise short-term and mobile connections. Telescopes and light sources are being developed in Jena for this purpose.
Fraunhofer is also focussing on the development of interfaces between all these different subcomponents and their implementation in existing communication network infrastructures. »In this way, we are helping to promote a heterogeneous, hybrid communication network«, summarises Andreas Tünnermann, Institute Director of Fraunhofer IOF and spokesperson for the QuNET steering committee.
Advisory board from industry and the Federal Office for Safety support further development
In addition to the three leading research organisations, an advisory board consisting of experts from industrial companies in the fields of telecommunications, system and component development, security and the space industry as well as the Federal Office for Information Security are also involved in the QuNET initiative. The involvement of further partners, primarily from industry, is planned.
Facts and figures on the QuNET initiative
Start: Autumn 2019
Duration: 7 years
Funding organisation: Federal Ministry of Education and Research
Volume: 125 million euros in funding planned
The participating research institutes
The Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF, based in Jena, conducts research into the further development of light as a means of solving a wide range of problems and application scenarios. The work of the research institute, which was founded in 1992, is therefore focussed on application-oriented research into light generation, light guidance and light measurement. Together with researchers from basic research and industry, innovative solutions are developed that provide a technological advantage in science and industry and open up new fields of application for photonics.
The Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light (MPL) covers a broad spectrum of research, including nonlinear optics, quantum optics, nanophotonics, photonic crystal fibres, optomechanics, quantum technologies, biophysics and – in collaboration with the Max Planck Centre for Physics and Medicine – connections between physics and medicine. The MPL was founded in January 2009 and is one of more than 80 institutes of the Max Planck Society that conduct basic research in the natural sciences, life sciences, humanities and social sciences in the service of the general public. Today, almost 250 people from around 30 nations work at the institute. Some of the researchers have decades of experience in the field of quantum communication. They also use telecoms technology for the exchange of quantum keys, which allows the processes to be used commercially quickly. For more than ten years, the Erlangen team has also been investigating how the keys can be transmitted over several kilometres on the ground using laser light (known as a free-beam connection) or over longer distances by satellite. The MPL is significantly involved in many large national and international projects – also in co-operation with national industry.
The DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation (IKN) is dedicated to mission-oriented research in selected areas of communications and navigation. Its work ranges from the theoretical foundations to the demonstration of new procedures and systems in a real environment and is embedded in the DLR programmes Space, Aeronautics, Transport, Digitalisation and Security. The institute currently employs around 190 people, including 150 scientists, at its sites in Oberpfaffenhofen and Neustrelitz. The institute develops solutions for the global networking of man and machine, for high-precision and reliable positioning for future navigation applications as well as processes for autonomous and cooperative systems in transport and exploration. The institute also deals with the security of radio systems. The focal points in this area include post-quantum cryptography and the transmission of quantum keys via satellite.
QuNET initiative: Questions and answers
Why this initiative?
Ever more powerful digital technologies are impacting today’s data networks and are increasingly jeopardising the security of this critical infrastructure of the modern information society. Added to this is the ongoing development of the quantum computer. The ability to calculate and analyse a multitude of possible options simultaneously not only creates new opportunities, but also risks. Many of the currently widely used core components of encryption, on which security is based, can be broken. Government organisations, the healthcare system and security-critical companies in particular must therefore rethink and renew their security infrastructures.
What is the aim of the initiative?
The primary goal of QuNET is to develop the physical and technical foundations as well as the necessary technologies for a tap-proof communication network using quantum physics. However, QuNET enables more than just secure communication: the prospective applications of the transmission of quantum states extend to networked quantum computers, the so-called quantum internet. This opens up completely new possibilities for materials science, in the financial sector or in the development of medicines.
How does quantum encryption work?
The goal is to make existing communication networks secure in the long term by means of a quantum key distribution (QKD). Quantum encryption takes advantage of the property of quantum particles that they cannot be measured or copied unnoticed. For example, a quantum source generates light pulses that are exchanged between two locations. From the results of a quantum mechanical measurement, a manipulation or a listening of the light pulses would be detected. Based on this, two keys can be generated, which are known only to the sender and receiver and which can be used for encryption. This method is also secure against all future attacks by a quantum computer. To overcome longer distances, satellites with quantum sources can generate the quantum keys over intercontinental distances, or else future developments of so-called quantum repeaters (cf. Q.Link.X) can be used.
What is the state of the art in quantum communication?
Quantum communication offers many potential applications for the benefit of the economy and society. Quantum key distribution (QKD) is probably one of the best-studied and most advanced examples internationally.
Kick-off in Jena: BMBF initiative QuNET for tap-proof quantum communication
QuNET project launches at Fraunhofer IOF, builds secure quantum communication network for Germany and strengthens digital security and sovereignty.
On 12 November 2019, around 30 project participants met at the Fraunhofer IOF in Jena for the launch of QuNET. As part of the BMBF-funded initiative, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, the Max Planck Society and the German Aerospace Centre will set up a pilot network for quantum communication in Germany, which will be used for tap-proof and tamper-proof data transmission.
At the start of the project, Federal Research Minister Anja Karliczek explained in a video message: »We must secure our information and communication systems as far as possible against IT attacks. Only then can the economy and society make full use of the progress and opportunities offered by digitalisation. That is why the development of a quantum communication infrastructure is crucial for us. This will enable greater security and technological sovereignty. Germany and Europe should become the most trustworthy data space in the world. QuNET’s work will bring us a great deal closer to this goal.«
Motivation
Secure communication networks are a critical infrastructure in modern information societies. Cyberattacks and data leaks are currently on the rise, affecting not only the economy but also citizens, public institutions and federal authorities. In addition, the latest technological advances in the development of quantum computers require new ways of transmitting data. These future high-performance computers will be able to break important cryptographic procedures of our current digital communication and thus jeopardise secure data traffic.
Quantum communication, on the other hand, will make it possible to counter this threat and transmit sensitive information in such a way that its confidentiality is maintained. Quantum states are used to distribute cryptographic keys that cannot be copied, read or even manipulated due to fundamental laws of quantum physics.
Prof Andreas Tünnermann, Director of Fraunhofer IOF, said in his opening speech: »Data security is a fundamental right and within the framework of QuNet we will endeavour to contribute to secure communication, but also to the secure storage of data in Germany and Europe. This infrastructure will be of interest to both science and industry.«
Project start and set goals
On the occasion of the project launch of the QuNET funding initiative, representatives of all participating institutions came together in Jena to discuss the next steps and adopt concrete work packages. In the first phase (QuNET-alpha), the researchers will investigate quantum communication technologies for hybrid communication systems and establish a quantum-secured pilot link between federal institutions.
In further project phases, the initiative aims to establish connectivity with other European quantum network initiatives. In close cooperation with German industry and the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), QuNET will implement a German quantum communication infrastructure. QuNET is thus laying important foundations for quantum-secure communication, which in future will offer security in the digital world not only to federal authorities but also to industry and citizens.
The role of the Fraunhofer IOF
Fraunhofer IOF is coordinating the ‘QuNet’ project and is contributing its expertise in the fields of optical quantum technologies, precision mechanical systems and adaptive optics, among others. In addition to a mobile open science platform (QuBus) and free-beam experiments on quantum key distribution, colleagues in Jena are also working on new high-performance sources for photon pairs, for example. The guests were able to gain an insight into the relevant sub-projects during a tour of the laboratory.
BMBF and research launch major offensive for quantum communication
The German government intends to massively increase its support in the field of optical quantum communication in the coming years. At a press conference at the Fraunhofer Forum in Berlin today, Federal Research Minister Anja Karliczek announced the official launch of the new ‘QuNET’ large-scale offensive. In future, intensive research will be carried out here on photonic technologies for tap-proof quantum-based communication networks. The consortium project is being led by the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF.
Together with the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, the Max Planck Society and the German Aerospace Centre, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) is planning a major initiative for a tap-proof quantum network. At a press conference at the Fraunhofer Forum in Berlin today, the Federal Minister of Education and Research, Anja Karliczek, announced the funding of the ‘QuNET’ initiative. With an initial funding volume of 25 million euros, research will be conducted in the coming years into how the laws of quantum physics can be utilised for secure communication networks.
Minister Anja Karliczek presented the BMBF’s plans: ‘In the digital age, the economy and society are more dependent than ever on secure communication. Secure data lines are the lifelines of our age. That is why data exchange must be made as secure as possible. Quantum communication offers unique opportunities for this. Germany and Europe must develop their own expertise in this area to avoid becoming dependent on others. That is why we must advance research in this future field. Germany and Europe should become the most trustworthy data space in the world – that is why I will put this topic on the German and European agenda. With the ‘QuNET’ initiative, top German research and companies are jointly laying the foundations for the secure communication of the future. I am grateful to the participants in this unique project for their commitment to this future field.” The aim of ‘QuNET’ is secure communication between government organisations. However, the seven-year project is also intended to serve as a central platform for the development of a German quantum communication infrastructure and will also lead the way in the development of a quantum internet. At European level, the German government and the ‘QuNET’ consortium partners are pursuing the goal of creating a secure European data space.
Challenges for quantum communication.
To meet this challenge, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft has joined forces with its Institutes of Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF (Jena) and Communications Engineering, Heinrich Hertz Institute HHI (Berlin) with the German Aerospace Centre and the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light (Erlangen). Industrial partners from the fields of telecommunications, system and component development, security and satellite operations are also involved in the project, including companies such as Deutsche Telekom AG, ADVA Optical Networking and Tesat-Spacecom. The close links with national industry are intended to lay the foundations for the rapid transfer of the solutions developed in the ‘QuNET’ project.
Fraunhofer President Prof. Reimund Neugebauer explained the strategy of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft: ‘With “QuNET”, we are laying the foundation for the development of a standardised and secure European information and communication infrastructure alongside excellent partners from research, industry and politics. This project will enable us to further expand Germany’s pioneering role and technological leadership in this strategically important area. In the long term, we plan to combine data sovereignty and data security in the European data space at the highest level by linking quantum-based communication infrastructure with the International Data Spaces.”
New opportunities for the digital society
The background to the initiative is the increasing performance of digital technologies that affect today’s data networks and pose a growing threat to the security of our modern information society. Government organisations, banks and security-critical companies in particular need to rethink and renew their security infrastructures in this respect.
Prof. Andreas Tünnermann, Director of Fraunhofer IOF and initiator of the ‘QuNET’ project, explains: ‘The initiative synergistically combines the complementary expertise of high-ranking German research institutions in the field of quantum communication. The project strategically addresses the development of new heterogeneous quantum communication networks that will enable multi-user operation. QuNET will thus make an important contribution to physically secure communication in Germany and Europe.” Prof. Gerd Leuchs, Director Emeritus at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, also referred to the technical potential of optical quantum communication: ‘The special property of quantum measurement that only ever reveals part, but never all, of the information available offers scope for interesting applications ranging from the perfect random number generator to the detection of unauthorised eavesdroppers. Both are important for secure communication.”
The project, which is divided into three phases, will officially start in autumn 2019: first, the researchers will develop the hardware components; in the second phase, they will work on the technological foundations for multi-user operation in heterogeneous networks. In the third phase, the public authority network based on quantum technology will be implemented together with industry and federal network operators.
