Secure Quantum Communication Technologies and Systems: From Labs to Markets

TLDR

The paper offers a broad overview of quantum communication, identifies bottlenecks, and proposes a roadmap aligned with European Quantum Flagship guidelines to maximize societal impact. The authors analyze the state of the art in protocols, systems, and devices, classify application fields for short‑ and medium‑term impact, and discuss the scientific community’s direction and methodology.

Abstract

We provide a broad overview of current quantum communication by analyzing the recent discoveries on the topic and by identifying the potential bottlenecks requiring further investigation. The analysis follows an industrial perspective, first identifying the state or the art in terms of protocols, systems, and devices for quantum communication. Next, we classify the applicative fields where short- and medium-term impact is expected by emphasizing the potential and challenges of different approaches. The direction and the methodology with which the scientific community is proceeding are discussed. Finally, with reference to the European guidelines within the Quantum Flagship initiative, we suggest a roadmap to match the effort community-wise, with the objective of maximizing the impact that quantum communication may have on our society.