Drone-based Quantum Key Distribution

Source:  DD News

Context: The Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) signed an MoU with Synergy Quantum India to jointly develop drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems.

About Quantum Key Distribution (QKD):

• What is Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)?

• • QKD is a secure method of key exchange that uses quantum mechanics instead of mathematical encryption algorithms to share cryptographic keys.

• How QKD Works?

• • Photons (light particles) with random quantum states are transmitted over a channel.
  • The no-cloning theorem and measurement disturbance principle ensure any eavesdropping is detectable.
  • After transmission, both parties compare a subset to detect errors or interception.
  • Final keys are extracted after error correction and privacy amplification.

• Types of QKD:

• • Prepare-and-Measure Protocols:
    • Sender prepares photons in known states (e.g., BB84 protocol).
    • Used to detect interception.
  • Entanglement-Based Protocols:
    • Relies on quantum entanglement.
    • Change in one entangled particle affects its pair, enabling tamper detection.
  • Discrete Variable QKD (DV-QKD): Uses individual photons and polarization for data encoding.
  • Continuous Variable QKD (CV-QKD): Uses laser properties like amplitude and phase for encoding (e.g., Silberhorn protocol).

• Key Features:

• • Tamper detection: Any interception is instantly detectable.
  • Provable security: Based on physical laws, not computational complexity.
  • Quantum-resilient: Immune to future threats from quantum computers.

About Drone-Based Quantum Key Distribution Technology:

• What is Drone-Based Quantum Key Distribution Technology?

• • A futuristic application of QKD via drones, enabling secure key exchange over dynamic and remote locations without dependency on fixed fiber-optic infrastructure.

• Features:

• • Mobility & Flexibility: Can be deployed quickly in disaster zones, border areas, or rural setups.
  • Uses Decoy-State BB84 Protocol: Enhances security and efficiency using polarization encoding.
  • Targeted for TRL 6+: Demonstrates a system prototype in a relevant environment.
  • Boosts Secure Communication: Especially vital for defense, surveillance, and confidential data transfer.
  • Atmanirbhar Bharat-Aligned: Promotes indigenous research and innovation in quantum technologies.