Next-Generation QKD Systems

Open EU call topic HORIZON-JU-EUROHPC-2026-NQKD-12-01 · HORIZON JU Research and Innovation Actions. Part of call HORIZON-JU-EUROHPC-2026-NQKD-12: Next-Generation QKD Systems. Next deadline 2026-11-17. Topic page: https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/opportunities/topic-details/HORIZON-JU-EUROHPC-2026-NQKD-12-01

Expected Outcome: This action will strengthen Europe's strategic autonomy in quantum-secure communications by advancing core QKD technologies and integration capabilities. Expected results include: - Development and demonstration of next-generation QKD systems, with a focus on cost-effectiveness and integration, with specific measurable improvements in one of the following parameters or features: (i) key rate (>1 Mbps over metropolitan distances), (ii) operational coverage of a network at the regional scale, >300 km for fibre-based QKD, including e.g. twin field and free-space links also for non-wired segments and for redundancy, (iii) development and demonstration of advanced quantum cryptographic protocols beyond QKD with provable security advantage over classical cryptographic systems. Implementation of hybrid quantum-classical cryptographic frameworks combining QKD and post-quantum cryptography (PQC), tested on clearly defined real-world applications. - Integration of quantum communication components with network equipment and orchestration systems (e.g., software-defined networking). - Validation of QKD-based security in high-priority use cases beyond EuroQCI infrastructure, including: - Critical infrastructure monitoring (e.g., energy grid telemetry), - Long-term secure cloud storage, - Industrial control systems (e.g., transport, manufacturing), - Secure multi-site enterprise communications.

- Strengthened European supply chain through the development of certifiable, standardised, and scalable QKD components. - This action must address at least two core technical roadblocks defined in the SRIA 2030 for…