JANUS concept
Like its namesake — the Roman two-faced deity looking simultaneously forward and backward — the JANUS project pursues a dual approach. One face looks toward the opportunities quantum computing offers for solving computationally hard problems in air traffic management. The other face confronts the threat quantum computing poses to current cryptographic infrastructure. Both lines of research are pursued together, ensuring that the solutions of tomorrow are cybersecure by design.
Interactive methodology diagram — to be created
Quantum-related opportunities and threats
A comprehensive literature review and community engagement campaign catalogues computationally complex optimisation and AI/ML problems in ATM/UTM, while simultaneously mapping vulnerabilities in current communications infrastructure to quantum-capable attacks.
Selection of quantum-amenable problems
Each identified problem is scored on an effort-versus-impact matrix. The highest-ranked candidates advance to the development phase, while a parallel risk analysis assesses cryptographic vulnerabilities and recommends mitigation urgency.
Exploratory analysis — QC use case
The most promising use cases are modelled classically, then reformulated as QUBO/Ising or variational-circuit problems. Quantum solutions are benchmarked against classical baselines. At least one use case reaches TRL1 as a candidate SESAR technological solution.
Post-quantum cryptography roadmap
A phased migration strategy protects ATM/UTM communications against quantum threats, aligned with NIST standards and European regulatory frameworks. The work includes EuroQCI feasibility assessment and a 2030–2045 enterprise architecture combining PQC and QKD.
Concept validation
Validation activities engage stakeholders through workshops, scenario walkthroughs, and expert panels to assess operational acceptability, potential benefits, and perceived risks. Results are consolidated in an Exploratory Research Report.