Satellite-based Free-Space Optical Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Systems for Secured Wireless Networks

• Project/Area Number: 21K11870
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 60060:Information network-related
• Research Institution: The University of Aizu
• Principal Investigator: Anh・T Pham 会津大学, コンピュータ理工学部, 教授 (80404896)
• Project Period (FY): 2021-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Project Status: Granted (Fiscal Year 2021)
• Budget Amount: ¥4,030,000 (Direct Cost: ¥3,100,000、Indirect Cost: ¥930,000); Fiscal Year 2023: ¥1,430,000 (Direct Cost: ¥1,100,000、Indirect Cost: ¥330,000); Fiscal Year 2022: ¥1,430,000 (Direct Cost: ¥1,100,000、Indirect Cost: ¥330,000); Fiscal Year 2021: ¥1,170,000 (Direct Cost: ¥900,000、Indirect Cost: ¥270,000)
• Keywords: Quantum key distribution / Free-space optics / Wireless networks / Satellite communications

Outline of Research at the Start

Classical key distribution protocols, which are based on the mathematical complexity of cryptography techniques, can be soon compromised. Capitalizing on the law of quantum physics, QKD has been considered as a promising method with proved implementations for fixed networks. This proposal aims to study the proposal of QKD systems for wireless networks based on the FSO technology and high-altitude platforms. We focus on solving both fundamental theory as well as system, protocol designing issues to achieve a reliable and efficient key distribution method for the future wireless networks.