TECHNICAL POINT OF CONTACT (TPOC)
Frank Cruz
Mark Hagiwara
PROJECTED CMMC LEVEL REQUIREMENT
Level 2 (Self)
TECHNOLOGY AREAS
Electronics
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Information Systems
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Sensors
MODERNIZATION PRIORITIES
Emerging Threat Reduction
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Integrated Network Systems-of-Systems
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Integrated Sensing and Cyber
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Quantum Science
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Sustainment & Logistics
KEYWORDS
Quantum Memory; Quantum Key Distribution; Secure Communication; Quantum Networks; Photonic Qubits; Quantum Repeaters; Long-Range Communication; Cybersecurity; TRL 2-5; Quantum Science; AFWERX; Strategic Communications; Emerging Threats
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this SBIR Phase I project is to develop and demonstrate advanced quantum memory systems essential for enabling secure communication within quantum networks. The primary goal is to enhance the storage and transmission capabilities of photonic qubits, ensuring high coherence and minimal loss over extended distances. This will facilitate the creation of scalable quantum repeater systems that significantly improve the efficiency and robustness of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). By focusing on the foundational aspects of quantum memory hardware, this effort aims to address critical challenges in quantum communication, providing a reliable solution that can be adapted and expanded upon in subsequent phases. The results from this phase will establish a solid technical foundation, allowing for iterative improvement and seamless integration with existing and future quantum entanglement sources and networks.
DESCRIPTION
The rapid advancement of quantum computing poses a significant challenge to traditional encryption methods, potentially compromising the security of digital communications. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) provides a solution by utilizing quantum properties to generate secure encryption keys. However, the current QKD systems are limited by signal loss over long distances, preventing widespread implementation. This project seeks to address this limitation by developing advanced quantum memory systems, or quantum repeaters, designed to extend the range and fidelity of quantum signals. These repeaters will enable efficient Quantum Key Distribution over long distances, thereby enhancing secure communications for the Air Force's digital infrastructure.
The primary goal of this project is to develop and demonstrate advanced quantum memory systems capable of high coherence and minimal loss, essential for reliable communication within quantum networks. At the project start, the technology is at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2, focusing on the application concept formulation. By the end of Phase II, the target is to reach TRL 5, demonstrating the integrated system in a relevant environment.
The required efforts will commence with foundational research and development of quantum memory hardware. In Phase I, the tasks will involve designing quantum memory materials, developing quantum repeater prototypes, and validating their performance through controlled laboratory experiments. Key activities will include:
Designing and fabricating quantum memory materials aimed at reducing signal decoherence and data loss.
Developing prototypes capable of storing and transmitting photonic qubits.
Conducting laboratory tests to validate the prototypes' performance against defined metrics (e.g., coherence, loss, noise).
For Phase II, the focus will shift to refining these prototypes, integrating them into a scalable network, and validating their operation in a relevant environment. The main activities will include:
Enhancing quantum memory systems for increased coherence fidelity and extended transmission distances.
Integrating prototypes with existing entanglement sources and quantum communication networks.
Testing the quantum memory systems in simulated and real-world environments to ensure robustness and reliability.
Evaluating performance through rigorous data collection and analysis to meet predefined security and operational metrics.
Minimum deliverables for this project include detailed technical reports, functional quantum memory prototypes, performance evaluation data, and an integration roadmap detailing steps for transition into operational use. The advanced quantum repeater systems developed through this SBIR initiative will significantly enhance the DoD's capabilities in secure communications, positioning the Air Force at the forefront of quantum-secured information transfer.
PHASE I
Phase I will assess the feasibility of using quantum memory hardware to enhance Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) by requiring proposals to detail the scientific approach, develop a conceptual design for a functional quantum memory prototype showcasing its capabilities and potential advantages in both lab and simulated environments. Demonstrate Technology Readiness Level 3 by drafting a feasibility report and a detailed architecture plan for a Phase II prototype of a lab-based test bench capable of end-to-end quantum information transport.
PHASE II
Phase II will focus on developing a prototype quantum repeater/memory system, validating functionality in relevant environments, and achieving TRL 4-6. This involves building scalable prototypes, integrating with entangled pair transmission equipment, and rigorous lab testing to meet metrics such as coherence, loss, and security. Successful outcomes will demonstrate transition readiness for development and deployment.
PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS
In Phase III, the quantum memory technology will achieve TRL 7, transitioning into secure DoD communication networks and commercial QKD applications. Expected efforts include finalizing integration, extensive testing, obtaining necessary certifications, and establishing production capability. Potential Air Force customers include network and cybersecurity divisions. This addresses critical needs for secure, long-range communication solutions.
REFERENCES
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F. Bussieres et al., "Prospective applications of optical quantum memories, "Journal of Modern Optics, vol. 60, no. 18, pp. 1519-1537, 2013.
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E. Knill, R. Laflamme, and G. J. Milburn, "A scheme for efficient quantum computation with linear optics, "Nature, vol. 409, pp. 46-52, 2001.
Journal of Research of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (2020), "Optical Quantum Memory and its Applications in Quantum Communication Systems". https://doi.org/10.6028/jres.125.002
The Quantum Consortium. QED-C | The Quantum Economic Development Consortium
National Quantum Initiative. www.quantum.gov
BB84 Protocol: Bennett, C. H., & Brassard, G. (1984). "Quantum cryptography: Public key distribution and coin tossing. "Theoretical Computer Science, 560, 7-11. (This is the original QKD protocol.)
V. Scarani, H. Bechmann-Pasquinucci, N. J. Cerf, M. Du ek, N. L tkenhaus, & M. Peev, "The security of practical quantum key distribution, "Reviews of Modern Physics, vol. 81, no. 3, pp. 1301, 2009.
S. Pirandola, S. L. Braunstein, R. Laurenza, C. Ottaviani, & G. Spedalieri, "Quantum cryptography, "Nature Reviews Physics, vol. 2, no. 11, pp. 724-742, 2020.
M. Lucamarini, Z. L. Yuan, J. F. Dynes, & A. J. Shields, "Overcoming the rate distance limit of quantum key distribution without quantum repeaters, "Nature, vol. 557, no. 7705, pp. 400-403, 2018.
