QCI.dk-Cross Border

QCI.dk-Cross Border is a European project that will establish a 1,240-kilometre quantum-secure communication network between Denmark, Sweden and Poland and test how quantum-secure communication can operate across national borders.

The project is part of the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) initiative, which aims to build a common network for quantum-secure communication across Europe. One of the objectives is to strengthen Europe’s preparedness for a future in which quantum computers could make several of the encryption methods we use today insecure.

The network will use Quantum Key Distribution (QKD), among other technologies, where quantum signals are used for the secure exchange of the cryptographic keys that protect communication. In QCI.dk-Cross Border, the technology will be used over longer distances and across national networks.

The connections between Denmark, Sweden and Poland will include subsea fibre-optic cables. The project will also test how quantum signals can be transmitted through fibres that are simultaneously used for conventional data traffic.

Project partners

QCI.dk-Cross Border brings together research institutions, national research and education networks and other stakeholders from Denmark, Sweden and Poland.

The project partners are the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), including DTU Physics and DeiC; the Swedish Research Council/SUNET; the Poznan Supercomputing and Networking Center (PSNC); Koszalin University of Technology (KUT); and the European Spallation Source ERIC (ESS). GlobalConnect participates as an associated partner.

DeiC's role

DeiC coordinates QCI.dk-Cross Border and is responsible for project management, quality assurance and overall project security. DeiC is also responsible for parts of the installation and operation of the network in Denmark and Sweden.

DeiC also leads the work to ensure that the infrastructure can continue to operate after the project ends.