Executive summary
In the televised reportage aired by ERT and presented by journalist Kostas Nousis, titled “National Quantum Communication Infrastructure: A Vanguard for the Protection of Critical Infrastructure,” the critical importance of quantum communication is highlighted. In an era shaped by quantum computing, ensuring the security of critical infrastructure and sensitive data becomes increasingly imperative, driven by rapid technological advances and the corresponding surge in cyberattacks.
Greece is taking a decisive step into the future of secure communications and cybersecurity by harnessing the power of quantum technologies through the development of the National Quantum Communication Infrastructure, HellasQCI. This initiative employs Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) technologies to establish a foundation for unbreakable data security.
Unlike conventional encryption methods—which may eventually be rendered obsolete by the capabilities of quantum computers—quantum communication is grounded in the principles of quantum mechanics. In particular, QKD provides a method for distributing encryption keys with theoretically unassailable security.
Excerpts from the televised statements:
Greece is now equipped to leverage quantum technologies to safeguard its critical infrastructure and sensitive data through HellasQCI, the National Quantum Communication Infrastructure. This system establishes an impenetrable network for distributing quantum keys (QKD), ushering in a new era of cybersecurity.
- The Minister of Digital Governance, Dimitris Papastergiou, mentioned that:
“Quantum communications are here to help us interconnect computers with greater speed and enhanced security.” - Dr. Ilias Papastamatiou, GRNET, HellasQCI Project Coordinator, explained that: “Quantum computers pose a threat to the security of classical telecommunications. That is why quantum communication technologies are being employed—to address this looming threat of the future.”
- Konstantinos Karantzalos, Secretary General of Telecommunications and Post of the Ministry of Digital Governance, noted that:
“In addition to terrestrial networks, Greece is also investing in satellite-based networks (space-to-Earth communications), equipping the country’s observatories with Optical Ground Stations to enable such interconnections through the distribution of [quantum] keys.” - Aymard de Touzalin, Head of Unit, DG CNECT at the European Commission, emphasized that “It is essential that we get the lead in this and Europe is committed to support and to take the lead in this technology.”
The HellasQCI project, coordinated by GRNET, with the support of the Greek Ministry of Digital Governance and under the guidance of the General Secretariat of Telecommunications and Post, positions Greece to advance quantum technologies, reinforce its digital sovereignty, and lay the foundation for a national quantum internet. These advancements promise significant breakthroughs in research, education, and innovation across the country.
