Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Technology

In News 

• The Indian Army has started the process of procurement of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technology developed by a Bengaluru-based cybersecurity company by issuing a commercial Request for Proposal (RFP).

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Technology

• About:
  • It is primarily a mechanism to undertake secure communication, which utilises a cryptographic protocol involving various components of quantum mechanics. 
• Process: 
  • The technology enables two communicating sides to come up with random secret keys shared by both of them and known exclusively to them, so only they can use it to encrypt and decrypt messages, thus achieving a very highly-secure communication.
  •  QKD helps create a non-hackable quantum channel for creating unhackable encryption keys that are used to encrypt critical data or voice or video across the end points.

• Key sharing: 
  • The distribution of encryption keys is the crucial factor for this. Sharing of keys over the air or wired links requires encryption, which in turn requires encryption keys to be pre-shared. 
  • Quantum-based communication offers a robust solution to sharing the keys securely. 

• Use: 
  • Secure communications are vital not just for the defence and strategic agencies across the globe but also for various civilian applications. 

• Indian agencies:
  • DRDO has undertaken multiple projects for the development of this technology.
  • When the country is celebrating ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, India is all set to join the league of global leaders with indigenous and more advanced quantum communication technology in order to equip its Armed Forces with high end defence,” the release added.

• Significance
  • This technology will enable security agencies to plan a suitable quantum communication network with indigenous technology backbone.
  • Highly secured military grade communications could occur now.

Source: IE