LMT has collaborated with MikroTik and the Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science of the University of Latvia (LU MII) on the R&D of quantum network innovations.
To ensure the highest level of security for data transmission both in civil and defense areas, LMT has collaborated with the Latvian network equipment manufacturer, MikroTik, and the Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science of the University of Latvia (LU MII) on the R&D of quantum network innovations. The first testing has already been conducted, where LU MII scientists transmitted quantum technology-encrypted data over LMT’s network. It’s a significant step towards lowering cybersecurity risks.
Quantum technology is a class of technologies that develops radical innovations based on quantum physics. Such innovations include data processing by quantum computers, secure communication enabled by quantum networks and cryptography, quantum metrology, and more. Several quantum technologies are currently being developed in Latvia, such as quantum software and algorithms, various equipment, and quantum internet.
Using quantum encryption technology devices in data transmission improves communication security. Since 2019, LU MII has used ID Quantique QKD “Clavis3” devices for quantum key distribution. During the first collaborative testing of quantum technology-encrypted data transmission by LMT and LU MII, the quantum keys synchronized at a speed of ~2000 bps.
Various industries worldwide, especially finance, medicine, and defense, are deeply interested in using quantum computing and quantum secure communication. The EU has launched a digital infrastructure development initiative that includes quantum computing and quantum networks. Moreover, using quantum technology to advance mobile networks has many benefits, including a high potential for developing new products and services. Quantum technology enables new opportunities for safe digital communication by significantly lowering cybersecurity risks.
Juris Binde, President of LMTIn 2021 LMT, LU MII, and MikroTik signed a memorandum of collaboration on R&D in quantum technologies. The memorandum foresees research on the use of quantum technology and plans that MikroTik, in cooperation with LMT and LU MII, will develop cryptographic equipment – chips – suitable for quantum encryption.
New technology opportunities equal potential products, services, and novelties in every field – be it entrepreneurship, science, education, or medicine. The more effort and resources we'll invest in technology development today, the more technologically advanced we'll be tomorrow. Moreover, such development will strengthen our positions in facing unknown and unpredictable challenges in the future.
John Tully, Chairman of the Board at MikroTikInāra Opmane, Director of LU MII, says that the benefits of quantum physics can already be taken advantage of, without having to wait for quantum computers or quantum internet. Integrating quantum technology-based data encryption key exchange with classic encrypted data transmission technology is a perfect example of this and a major step forward in the adoption of quantum technologies. Quantum key distribution (QKD) technology shares the private key with the other party by using photons so that quantum physics laws guarantee recognition of illegal snooping. If somebody is illegally listening into a QKD channel, the receiver detects an error in key transmission and doesn’t trust them. Therefore, QKD guarantees that the private key is only available to both official parties of the communication, making it secure.
Global investments into quantum technology currently total ~50 billion euros. The most significant EU quantum infrastructure projects are Horizon 2020 Quantum Flagship and Horizon Europe and Digital Europe programs.