QDD

Motivation

Future high-performance quantum computers pose a global threat to data security. While post-quantum cryptography (PQC) promises security against quantum computer attacks through mathematical methods, quantum key distribution (QKD) offers a physically secured, long-term solution against attacks. However, current QKD systems are limited to distances of up to hundred kilometers. Greater distances require trusted nodes, which introduce additional security risks, or satellite-based QKD, which involves high development and operational costs. A promising approach is Twin-Field QKD (TF-QKD), which enables a doubling of the transmission range using existing fiber-optic networks without requiring trusted nodes.

Overall Project Goal

The “QDD” project aims to gradually implement quantum communication within existing network infrastructures. To achieve this, a hybrid PQC-QKD architecture will be researched and developed. The proposed solution envisions a pragmatic approach to initially deploying local QKD domains in critical sectors using currently available technology. To bridge large distances between these domains, PQC-based encryption methods will initially be used. The interfaces between local QKD domains are designed to be technology-agnostic and crypto-agile, so that future technologies, such as TF-QKD, satellite QKD, or quantum repeaters, can be integrated without requiring a fundamental overhaul of the existing infrastructure.

Innovation

The project combines the immediate use of QKD with a hybrid architecture integrating TF-QKD, potential quantum repeaters or satellite links, and AI-supported orchestration. The goal is to create a scalable and secure quantum communication infrastructure for Germany and Europe that enables the rapid deployment of QKD domains while also providing a foundation for future expansions and long-distance connectivity.

Infosim^® – Our Focus

Our work focusses on a software-defined management layer that operationalizes quantum-communication hardware through an intent-based orchestrator. Using LLMs coupled via standardized interfaces (e.g., MCP), it translates natural-language commands into network operations, abstracting QKD, PQC, and TF-QKD resources into a vendor-agnostic, application-ready layer. The solution should coordinate the physical QKD and logical PQC layers to enable secure cross-domain communication, supported by security-aware monitoring of classical and quantum-specific metrics. Key objectives are an intent-based quantum orchestrator with AI guardrails, a crypto-agility engine for dynamic PQC/TF-QKD switching, open APIs for interoperability, and field-test validation of cross-domain orchestration via the LLM interface.

Our Partners