JANUS

EuroQCI

The European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) is an initiative of the European Commission to build a pan-European quantum communication network, integrating terrestrial fibre-based systems with space-based satellite links. When complete, EuroQCI will span all EU member states, providing quantum key distribution and other quantum-enabled security services across the continent.

Terrestrial and satellite segments

EuroQCI has two complementary components:

  • Terrestrial segment — national QKD networks connected by optical fibre, typically spanning hundreds of kilometres with trusted repeater nodes. Several member states, including Croatia (CroQCI), have already begun deploying national quantum communication testbeds aligned with the EuroQCI architecture.
  • Satellite segment — space-based QKD using low-Earth-orbit satellites to distribute keys between ground stations across Europe, overcoming the distance limitations of terrestrial fibre. The European Space Agency's Eagle-1 mission is a precursor to this capability.

Relevance to ATM

ATM communication infrastructure is distributed across national boundaries, with ground-ground links between ANSPs, air-ground links to aircraft, and coordination channels with military and security authorities. The JANUS project assesses the conceptual compatibility of EuroQCI with these information flows:

  • Could EuroQCI QKD links secure inter-ANSP communication corridors across borders?
  • Can the satellite segment serve aircraft in flight, or are airborne QKD receivers technically infeasible for the foreseeable future?
  • What governance and policy barriers exist for integrating aviation infrastructure with a general-purpose quantum network under EU coordination?

2030–2045 outlook

JANUS combines PQC and QKD timelines into an enterprise architecture spanning 2030 to 2045. The analysis identifies where each technology fits: PQC as the near-term, broadly deployable solution for most ATM communication links; EuroQCI-based QKD as a specialised tool for high-value ground-ground connections where information-theoretic security justifies the infrastructure investment; and hybrid PQC-plus-QKD models for specific high-assurance use cases.

The project's long-term strategy (Deliverable D7.2) includes workforce training needs, regulatory milestones, and funding pathways aligned with the EuroQCI rollout timeline.