For its part, 5TONIC, the open research and innovation lab created by Telefónica and IMDEA Networks, plays a fundamental role alongside the Carlos III University of Madrid (UC3M) as a validation and testing center for new quantum communication network control technologies. A solution has been developed for secure end-to-end key distribution based on cloud-native and QKD (quantum key distribution) technologies. This solution has been evaluated using a digital twin for QKD networks, also developed within the project. It will be experimentally validated on a multi-domain PQC/QKD (Post-Quantum Cryptography/QKD) hybrid testbed deployed at the 5TONIC lab. "Our facilities allow us to evaluate quantum communication protocols and equipment under real-world operating conditions, a crucial step for their future commercial implementation," explains Carlos J. Bernardos, Vice President of 5TONIC and Professor at UC3M.
With the aim of expanding Europe's largest quantum communications network, the MadQuantum-CM project is deploying Telefónica's fiber optic infrastructure, on which quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols are implemented. This combination of state-of-the-art telecommunications infrastructure with quantum technology will guarantee inherently secure communications based on the principles of quantum mechanics.
The MadQuantum-CM consortium, coordinated by the Polytechnic University of Madrid, includes the participation of institutions such as the National Institute of Aerospace Technology, the Spanish Metrology Center, the Vithas Foundation, the Autonomous University of Madrid, and the Complutense University of Madrid. The project is funded by the European Union through the NextGenerationEU funds, by the Community of Madrid, and by the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR) within the framework of the Complementary Plan for Quantum Communication.
Key objectives of the project include the development of new, more efficient and secure quantum communication protocols, the integration of QKD technologies into conventional communication networks, the training of specialized researchers to boost the national industry, and the creation of use cases in critical sectors such as healthcare, energy, and public services.
5TONIC also contributes to technological development in the field of quantum communications. "The synergy between the different actors in the ecosystem, from operators like Telefónica to research centers like UC3M and IMDEA Networks, is fundamental to the project's success," Bernardos adds.
