Erillisverkot is involved in building a European quantum-safe communication network that leverages quantum technology to protect critical communications. The NordicQCI-project, which develops quantum-safe connections between Estonia, Finland and Sweden, is part of a broader European EuroQCI initiative aimed at establishing a quantum encryption network covering the entire EU as we move into the 2030s.
The NordicQCI-project is a step toward a European quantum communication infrastructure (QCI, Quantum Communication Infrastructure) where critical communications can be protected even in the era of quantum computers. At the same time, the initiative strengthens the capabilities of Estonia, Finland and Sweden to utilize quantum technology for secure inter-governmental information exchange.
The project implements cross-border quantum-safe encryption key distribution links (QKD, Quantum Key Distribution) between Estonia, Finland and Sweden. The goal is to establish and enable quantum-safe communications among government authorities, universities, research institutions, and critical infrastructure operators.
The project also develops solutions related to satellite-based quantum communication. The aim is to demonstrate that quantum-safe communications can be built on both fibre optic and satellite infrastructure in the future, even in northern conditions.
Erillisverkot’s Significant Role
Erillisverkot brings particular expertise in network operations and critical communications to the project. Erillisverkot participates in applying quantum technology in practical telecommunications environments and builds infrastructure to support future secure services.
In the NordicQCI-project, Erillisverkot constructs the administrative region in Finland for quantum communications and establishes international quantum communication connections to Estonia and Sweden. Erillisverkot is helping to build the foundation for solutions that can protect government communications and other societally critical data transfers in the future.
Erillisverkot has been involved in quantum communications development for several years. In a previous national quantum technology NaQCI.fi-project, Erillisverkot built and tested domestic quantum networks together with VTT, CSC and Cinia, bringing strong practical experience to the current initiative.
The national NaQCI.fi-project piloted quantum-safe connections in a production environment in the southern part of Finland. The pilots demonstrated that quantum technology is not merely a research topic for Erillisverkot — it can already be implemented in practical communications solutions.
Quantum Security utilises on Multiple Encryption Solutions
Quantum security does not rely on a single technology. Secure connections are built in practice by combining various methods, such as quantum key distribution and other post-quantum cryptography approaches (Post-Quantum Cryptography, PQC) that resist quantum attacks. In Erillisverkot’s work, it is essential to understand how these solutions complement each other, especially in critical communications. This enables the implementation of encryption solutions that incorporate a layered security approach (Defence-in-depth) and meet the highest security requirements for the future.
In quantum key distribution, encryption keys are transmitted in a way that reveals any eavesdropping attempt. For this reason, the technology is of particular interest in environments where communications must remain protected far into the future. However, other modern encryption solutions are also needed to ensure the overall system is practical and flexible.
Erillisverkot’s work with quantum technology demonstrates that future information security is being built today. When quantum technology and critical communications are brought together, society’s essential connections can be protected more effectively. The goal is to ensure that especially protected communications function reliably even in situations where security requirements increase and technology evolves rapidly.
Text by Johan Laxén, Network Architect