Details
- Status
- Open
- Reference
- HORIZON-JU-EUROHPC-2026-NQKD-12
- Publication date
- 13 August 2026
- Opening date
- Deadline model
- Single-stage
- Deadline date
- 17 November 2026, 17:00 (CET)
Description
The proposal should support applied R&D in advanced QKD systems and their integration into future secure communication networks, avoiding overlap with EuroQCI deployment efforts.
Proposals must include:
- Development and experimental validation of advanced QKD protocols and systems such as:
- Continuons-variable QKD (CV-QKD),
- Measurement-device-independent or device-independent QKD,
- Twin-field QKD (TF-QKD),
- Design and implementation of QKD integration into classical and optical networking infrastructure:
- Compatibility with existing network equipment (e.g., routers, switches),
- Interface development for SDN/NFV orchestration platforms,
- Secure key management compatible with enterprise-grade services.
- Demonstration of hybrid QKD-PQC frameworks in at least two realistic and demanding use cases, with demonstrable benefits over classical-only solutions.
In addition to the QKD-focused activities, the action may also address research and first-demonstration efforts on novel quantum communication protocols beyond QKD. This includes the design, feasibility analysis, and early experimental validation of quantum primitives for security and trust in distributed and decentralized settings.