India Achieves Milestone in Quantum Communication with Unhackable Technology

India Achieves Milestone in Quantum Communication with Unhackable Technology

India has made a significant advancement in quantum technology by successfully demonstrating quantum entanglement-based secure communication over a distance of more than one kilometer. This achievement highlights the country's growing capabilities in the field and is a collaborative effort between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi.

Key Features of the Experiment

The experiment was conducted using a free-space optical link on the IIT Delhi campus, achieving a secure key rate of approximately 240 bits per second (bps) with a quantum bit error rate (QBER) of less than 7 percent. These results are particularly noteworthy as they were obtained under real-world conditions, showcasing the robustness of the quantum communication system.

The technology relies on quantum entanglement, where two or more quantum particles become linked, allowing for secure communication. Any attempt to intercept or measure the entangled photons disturbs their quantum state, alerting legitimate users to potential security breaches. This intrinsic security feature positions quantum communication as theoretically "unhackable" by conventional or future quantum computers.

Evolution of Quantum Communication in India

This recent achievement is part of a series of advancements by the collaborative team. In 2022, they established India's first intercity quantum communication link using underground commercial-grade optical fiber. In 2024, the team successfully distributed quantum keys via entanglement over a 100-kilometer spool of telecom-grade optical fiber. The transition from fiber-based to free-space transmission represents a significant evolution, making the technology more adaptable for various environments, including challenging terrains and urban settings.

The project, titled 'Design and development of photonic technologies for free space QKD', received support from DRDO's Directorate of Futuristic Technology Management (DFTM). This successful demonstration exemplifies the effectiveness of the DRDO-Industry-Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE) model, which fosters collaboration to accelerate the development of cutting-edge technologies.

Implications for National Security and AI

The implications of this breakthrough extend to national security, where quantum communication can provide unbreakable encryption for military and strategic communications. It is considered a potential game changer in future warfare, securing data across critical sectors such as defense, finance, and telecommunications.

Additionally, as quantum computing poses a threat to current data security methods, quantum-secure communication technologies like Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) are essential for protecting sensitive data used in AI development. By ensuring data integrity and confidentiality, QKD can safeguard the entire lifecycle of AI systems, from data collection to real-time processing.

Alignment with National Goals

This achievement aligns with India's National Quantum Mission (NQM), which aims to establish the country as a global leader in quantum technology. Approved in April 2023 with a budget exceeding ₹6,000 crore, the mission's objectives include developing quantum computers and creating secure quantum communication networks spanning 2,000 kilometers.

The successful demonstration of free-space QKD is a tangible outcome of this national initiative, positioning India to bolster its national security and lay the groundwork for the next generation of computing and AI. Continued collaboration between institutions like DRDO and IIT Delhi will be crucial in scaling these technologies to create a comprehensive nationwide quantum network, fulfilling the ambitious vision of the National Quantum Mission.