In July 2024, our delegation working on the eCAUSIS project attended the conference in Dublin, Ireland (July 1–3), followed by additional meetings on July 4. This project, focused on advancing Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems, emphasizes the design of QKD network architecture, infrastructure, and component certification.
During the event, the project team delivered a presentation outlining progress, initial results, and key challenges. This sparked engaging and fruitful discussions on system architecture, management strategies, and software interfaces with fellow participants. The dialogue was further enriched by dedicated meetings with leading telecom operators, BT Group plc and Deutsche Telekom AG, which provided valuable industry perspectives and helped define preliminary security requirements for QKD systems.
In addition, the delegation gained insights into the latest innovations in quantum communication, including twin-field QKD protocols (Entropy 25(12), 1572, 2023), satellite QKD initiatives developed under the Eagle-1 project, and state-of-the-art single-photon detection technologies based on superconducting nanowires from Single Quantum Inc. These exchanges broadened the project’s knowledge base and strengthened ties with both academic and industrial partners, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the quantum communication community.