A Quantum System on Chip for equal access to secure communications: a pilot-ready photonic integrated circuit with embedded quantum key distribution functions for high-performance transceivers.

Project Information

NARWHAL

Grant agreement ID: 101099230

DOI

10.3030/101099230

Project closed

EC signature date 26 October 2022

Start date 1 November 2022

End date 31 August 2025

Funded under

• The European Innovation Council (EIC)

Total cost

€ 2 307 188,00

EU contribution

€ 2 307 188,00

Coordinated by

Photon Bridge B.V.
Netherlands

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - NARWHAL (A Quantum System on Chip for equal access to secure communications: a pilot-ready photonic integrated circuit with embedded quantum key distribution functions for high-performance transceivers.)

Reporting period: 2022-11-01 to 2023-10-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Quantum computing poses a serious threat to how we currently secure our data, potentially impacting everyone's access to secure communications. PhotonIP is working on a solution to this challenge by focusing on quantum-key-distribution (QKD) technology. This technology ensures that systems stay secure even in the face of advanced quantum computing capabilities.

The current issue with QKD systems is that they are large and mainly used in government and defense applications. What's missing is a solution that's suitable for everyday use and can be integrated into the networks we rely on, from our homes and offices to cell towers. PhotonIP is addressing this problem by developing a Quantum System on a Chip (QSoC) using low-cost and miniaturized photonic integrated circuits (PICs). This QSoC is designed to work seamlessly with existing networks, making it easy for everyone to adopt.

The unique approach by PhotonIP, focusing on performance, miniaturization, security, and cost-effectiveness, opens exciting possibilities for applying advanced PICs and quantum technology in various areas that can benefit us all.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

In the initial year of the NARWHAL project, PhotonIP has achieved significant milestones in the development of the full Quantum System on a Chip (QSoC). This progress includes the identification of key components, successful implementation and validation of the patented process flow, and the demonstration of rapid turnaround cycles for delivering the demonstrator in the later stages of the project. Following an iterative development process, the project has now entered the concluding phase of the first development cycle, showcasing impressive outcomes at the component level. These components serve as the fundamental building blocks for the ultimate system demonstrator, which constitutes the primary focus for the remaining duration of the project.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The NARWHAL project led by PhotonIP is a research-intensive initiative introducing groundbreaking innovations with the potential to revolutionize existing telecom component and equipment markets, while also paving the way for new markets in quantum secure network equipment. PhotonIP is actively engaging with key decision-makers and R&D leaders in the telecom transceiver market, showcasing its technology developments to selected stakeholders.

PhotonIP oversees the entire process, ensuring the delivery of advanced optical engines that align with industry standard specifications, a crucial aspect in the dynamic telecom equipment market. The target customers for the low-power 100G coherent optical engine and the 100G Quantum System on Chip (QSoC) operate within the telecom market, which is anticipated to evolve to include quantum-secure telecom equipment in the future.

In pursuit of these objectives, PhotonIP has developed an exploitation plan with a primary focus on bringing the first prototypes of advanced optical engines to the market. This includes the 100G coherent optical engine initially, positioning it as a standalone product before incorporating CV-QKD functionality into the QSoC product. This strategic approach aims to introduce the 100G coherent optical engine to the market promptly, with the integration of quantum communication capabilities expected to follow in 3 to 5 years, aligning with the evolving market demand for secure quantum communications.