C-DOT and Synergy Quantum Sign MoU to Jointly Develop Quantum Key Distribution Technology suited for Drone based systems.

The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) has signed an MoU with Synergy Quantum India to jointly develop drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems. This collaboration aims to enhance India’s indigenous capabilities in quantum-secure communications under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology)

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a secure communication method that uses quantum mechanics to generate and share encryption keys between parties. It ensures ultra-secure data transmission by detecting any eavesdropping attempts through quantum principles like superposition and entanglement

Strategic Significance

• Partnership Between Public & Private Sector:
  • C-DOT (Govt. R&D body) + Synergy Quantum (private deep-tech firm) = synergy of research depth + industry agility.
• Aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat:
  • Supports indigenous development in emerging telecom and quantum-secure technologies.

Technological Highlights

• Focus: Development of Drone-based QKD systems using:
  • Decoy-based BB84 protocol.
  • Polarization encoding for quantum communication.
  • Targeted at TRL-6 or above (prototype demonstration in relevant environment).

• QKD:
  • Uses quantum mechanics to securely distribute encryption keys.
  • Crucial for quantum-resistant secure communication.

Use Case Relevance

• Optimized for drone-based deployments, enabling:
  • Mobile secure communication in remote or tactical zones.
  • Applications in defence, disaster response, critical infrastructure, and secure governance.

Collaborative Activities

• Joint R&D efforts in QKD for drones.
• Co-creation of grant proposals (national & international).
• Dissemination through:
  • Research papers, whitepapers.
  • Conferences, workshops, expert talks.

Vision and Goals

• Quantum Innovation Leadership:
  • Aims to position India as a global leader in drone-based quantum communications.
• Quantum-safe Telecom Infrastructure:
  • Expected to lay the groundwork for next-gen secure communication frameworks.

Stakeholders Involved

• Key personnel from C-DOT and Synergy Quantum present at MoU signing.
• Senior officials involved show high-level institutional commitment.

Implications for India

• Boosts India’s quantum ecosystem and supports secure digital infrastructure.
• Contributes to strategic autonomy in cyber and telecom security.
• Encourages public-private innovation ecosystem in frontier tech.