India Develops Drone-Based Quantum Communication

GS3 – Science & Technology

 

Context:

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) has signed an MoU with Synergy Quantum India Pvt. Ltd. to collaboratively develop drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology.

• C-DOT: A government R&D institution focused on telecom innovations to strengthen India’s digital infrastructure.
• Synergy Quantum India Pvt. Ltd.: A private firm working in quantum communication and cybersecurity solutions.

What is Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)?

QKD is a quantum cryptography method that enables secure exchange of encryption keys using principles of quantum mechanics.

• Quantum Principle: Utilizes superposition and entanglement to ensure security—qubits can represent both 0 and 1 simultaneously.
• Security Feature: Any attempt to intercept the photons disturbs their quantum state, alerting users to a breach.
• Process:
  • Photons are transmitted in random quantum states.
  • A sample is analyzed for anomalies to detect interference.
  • If secure, a final encryption key is generated using error correction and privacy amplification.
• Protocols Used:
  • Prepare-and-Measure (e.g., BB84 with polarisation encoding).
  • Entanglement-Based methods (using entangled photon pairs).
• Advantage: Offers theoretically unbreakable encryption, even against quantum computer attacks.

Drone-Based QKD Technology

• Functionality: Uses drones to distribute quantum keys securely in areas lacking telecom infrastructure.
• Application Areas:
  • Disaster-hit zones
  • Border and defence regions
  • Remote or inaccessible locations
• Protocol Used:
  • Implements Decoy-state BB84 protocol with polarisation encoding for enhanced security.
• Readiness:
  • Aims to reach Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6+, indicating successful testing in realistic environments.

Significance

• Strategic Communication: Secures communication in sensitive, remote, or infrastructure-deficient regions.
• Defence & Disaster Response: Enables real-time, encrypted data sharing during critical operations.
• Infrastructure Flexibility: Extends quantum communication beyond fixed fiber networks.
• Boosts National Goals:
  • Aligns with the National Quantum Mission.
  • Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat through indigenous tech development.
• Global Standing: Positions India as a proactive participant in the global quantum technology race.