Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is taking an important step towards ensuring secure communications. DRDO is preparing to set up a highly secure network spanning 500 kilometers. For this purpose, DRDO has issued ‘Expression of Interest’ (EOI). Under this project, a ‘Quantum Key Distribution Network’ (QKDN) system will be developed.
What is QKDN?
The full name of QKDN is ‘Quantum Key Distribution over Network’. It is a technology based on the principles of quantum physics. To keep the data secure, a unique code—called a “key”—is sent. This ‘key’ works to encrypt the data. The greatest strength of this technology lies in its security; If anyone attempts to intercept data during its transmission, this intrusion is immediately detected. In a quantum system, as soon as any interference occurs in the signal, it changes instantaneously. As a result, it is considered almost impossible to hack.
How will this network work?
DRDO aims to implement this technology on a large scale. The objective is to integrate the entire network with this system, rather than limiting its application to just a ‘point-to-point’ link between two specific locations. It will work on a variety of network topologies—such as star, ring, and point-to-point configurations. Currently, its immediate goal is to establish a secure network covering distances of up to 500 kilometers. To achieve this, multiple QKD units will be deployed. Additionally, ‘software-defined networking’ (SDN) technology will also be used; SDN makes it possible to manage and control the network through software, allowing the system to be dynamically adapted to meet specific operational requirements.
Emphasis on indigenous technology
Equipment manufactured exclusively in the country will be used in this project. DRDO is committed to ensure that the entire system is developed and assembled within India. This approach will serve to strengthen both national security and operational control. Work on this technology has already been going on in India for some time. In the year 2022, a successful test was conducted between Prayagraj and Vindhyachal over a distance of more than 100 kilometers. Earlier, trials were conducted in Hyderabad in 2020, followed by a successful trial on a 100 km long fiber-optic line in 2024. Last year, a test was also conducted using air medium, in which data was sent with the help of laser. This technology is very useful especially for remote and hilly areas.
Why is this technology important?
In today’s time, data is of utmost importance. The threat of cyber attacks is constantly increasing, and legacy security systems are proving more and more vulnerable. This problem has become even more serious with the advent of new quantum computers. Therefore, technologies like QKDN have become very important. It is the secure communication system of the future; It will protect military intelligence and ensure the security of banking operations and data centres. Apart from this, it will also be used in 5G and 6G networks. In true sense, this DRDO project will give new strength to the security of the country.