Acting Lines

The main line of the program is aligned with key European initiatives in the field of Quantum Communications (CC): the Quantum Flagship and the European Quantum Communications Infrastructure (EuroQCI). The latter, in particular, seeks the deployment of a Quantum Communications network capable of connecting all Europe.

It should be noted that the EuroQCI time scales involve technologies at different levels of development. The general objective of this first line is, therefore, to have the first versions of the infrastructure at the national level that will allow growth towards EuroQCI.

To achieve the objectives of this line, the following tasks are proposed:

• Task 1: Basic design of network nodes.
• Task 2: Design and deployment of networks in the participating Autonomous Communities.
• Task 3: Use cases. Definition and support.
• Task 4: Definition of governance and access mechanisms to the Quantum Network.

In this line, hardware will be researched and developed both for prototypes that can be deployed (Line 1) and for the next generation of DC and quantum Internet.

To achieve the objectives of this line, the following tasks are proposed:

• Task 1: QKD hardware in fiber optics.
• Task 2: Hardware QKD over free space.
• Task 3: Hardware for the quantum internet.
• Task 4: Enabling technologies.

In line 3, systems, tools and software protocols will be studied to improve the security, functionality and implementation of CC schemes, as well as their integration into existing communication networks.

To achieve the objectives of this line, the following tasks are proposed:

• Task 1: Design and security analysis of quantum cryptography protocols.
• Task 2: Methods for the transmission of quantum information.
• Task 3: Quantum communications networks.
• Task 4: Quantum certification.

The global vision of a network that allows connecting quantum systems and distributing quantum information between physically distant places goes beyond cybersecurity and the secure transmission of information. On the one hand, it is necessary to develop devices that allow the processing and reception of data in quantum key and, on the other hand, it must be naturally integrated into an ecosystem to which, for example, computing devices (computers and simulators) or ultra-precise measurement devices (sensory and quantum metrology) will be connected.

To achieve the objectives of this line, the following tasks are proposed:

• Task 1: Developments in condensed matter systems.
• Task 2: Developments in atomic and molecular systems.
• Task 3: Developments in advanced materials.
• Task 4: Metrology and quantum sensors.

This line analyzes a scenario in which the nodes of a quantum communications network also have quantum processing technologies that allow them to carry out more complex tasks, obtaining better results.

To achieve the objectives of this line, the following tasks are proposed:

• Task 1: Quantum algorithms.
• Task 2: Quantum-inspired algorithms.
• Task 3: Quantum emulators and classical algorithms for quantum systems.
• Task 4: Distributed quantum computing.

It is well known that training human resources (HR) in a technology is key to its success. Therefore, this line deals with transversal aspects of the previously mentioned lines from the point of view of HR and education. Its objective is to provide training that covers aspects of entrepreneurship, which are usually ignored in specialized programs in advanced studies.

To achieve the objectives of this line, the following tasks are proposed:

• Task 1: Training in innovation, patents, business creation, marketing, etc.
• Task 2: Attraction and retention of talent and its projection towards innovation.

Both at the level of development and market implementation, quantum technologies are still in an incipient phase, with only a few technologies capable of making the leap to the market. Currently, the global market volume is limited, but when quantum computing and communications systems get deployed, it is expected that they grow rapidly and a new industrial sector will be created around it. The very significant investments (with 9-digit figures) from the most advanced economies in the world – the aforementioned Quantum Flagship and EuroQCI in Europe – and from companies in the sector are indicative of the immense potential expected in the medium term in this area.

To achieve the objectives of this line, the following tasks are proposed:

• Task 1: Coordination.
• Task 2: Open Innovation System.
• Task 3: Dissemination and Dissemination of results.