Trenčín Joins the National Quantum Communication Network Development
On December 3, representatives from the Institute of Physics SAS, QUTE.sk and the Alexander Dubček University of Trenčín gathered to discuss plans for establishing the next node of the Slovak national quantum communication infrastructure (skQCI) in Slovakia. The meeting marked a significant step toward expanding the quantum network to the western part of Slovakia, advancing the goal of a robust and secure quantum communication system throughout the country.
Both Ing. Ingrid Kovaříková, PhD., Vice-Rector for Science, Research and International Relations and Ing. Martin Šrámka, PhD. Vice-Rector for Education and Training , expressed their enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the university’s commitment to fostering cutting-edge research and technological advancements. Doc. Mgr. Mário Ziman, PhD., Director of the Institute of Physics SAS, emphasized the importance of collaborations like this in building a resilient quantum communication network.
The Trenčín node is part of Slovakia’s contribution to the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI), aiming to create interconnected quantum networks across the European Union by the end of the decade. Following the meeting, it was announced that preparatory work on the Trenčín node would commence shortly, with implementation scheduled to begin in the coming months. The first secure quantum key exchanges (QKD links) involving the new node are expected to take place by mid-next year, further advancing the deployment of Slovakia’s national quantum communication testbed.
The secure transmission of keys in the quantum communication infrastructure is based on the principles of quantum entanglement, a phenomenon that formed the basis of the 2022 Nobel Prize in Physics. Dr. Ziman highlighted that the skQCI project is centered on developing a prototype entanglement-based quantum network rather than relying on commercially available solutions, ensuring Slovakia builds expertise in both core and supporting quantum technologies.
The skQCI project is funded by Digital Europe Programme and by the European Recovery and Resilience Plan, demonstrating Slovakia’s commitment to fostering innovation in emerging quantum technologies. The collaboration with the TnUAD in Trenčín is expected to create new opportunities for students, researchers, and local companies to actively participate in the rapidly evolving quantum industry.
Stay tuned for updates as the skQCI project continues to expand its national quantum communication network.