GRNET – National Infrastructures for Research and Technology, operating under the auspices of the Ministry of Digital Governance, and the Coordinator of the HellasQCI project, Dr. Ilias Papastamatiou, were hosted on the TV programme ACTION HI-TECH on Action24, in a feature highlighting the pivotal role of Greece and GRNET in the emerging field of quantum communications.

The broadcast presented in accessible terms the core principles of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and the technological shift from classical mathematical encryption methods to the laws of physics, offering a new, unbreakable model for secure data exchange. As Dr. Papastamatiou explained, quantum communication technologies allow for the immediate detection of any eavesdropping attempt, delivering unmatched data protection in increasingly threat-prone environments.

The feature also emphasized the growing threat of quantum computers and the “Store Now, Decrypt Later” scenario, where malicious actors can intercept encrypted data today with the aim of decrypting it in the future. Quantum communications were highlighted as the only viable security solution even against future quantum computers.

HellasQCI, coordinated by GRNET under the guidance of the General Secretariat of Telecommunications and Posts and supported by the Ministry of Digital Governance, is Greece’s National Quantum Communication Infrastructure and part of the pan-European EuroQCI initiative. The project includes the deployment of 650 km of QKD-ready optical fiber network across Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion, as well as the connection of three national observatories (Helmos, Holomontas, and Skinakas), which are being upgraded into Optical Ground Stations (OGS) in preparation for the launch of the European Union’s first quantum satellite, Eagle-1, expected in 2026.

The report showcased Greece’s leadership position in Europe in the field of quantum infrastructure, as well as the importance of continued investment in innovation to build a secure and resilient digital future.

Αs Dr. Papastamatiou stated: “Quantum security technologies are not science fiction — they are a national and European security priority. By investing in quantum infrastructure today, we protect our present — and at the same time, we build the future of Europe and of our country in the new digital era.”

Key highlights from the interview included:

  • What quantum communications are, and why they represent a radical shift in the cybersecurity landscape.
  • The urgent need for new infrastructure in response to the emerging threat of quantum computing.
  • The benefits for critical sectors: Defence, Public Administration, Health, Energy, Telecommunications.
  • The strategic importance of HellasQCI as both a national and European priority.
  • Greece’s active leadership role in the pan-European EuroQCI initiative for digital autonomy and sovereignty.

GRNET extends its warm thanks to journalist Dimitris Mallas and Action24 for the opportunity to communicate to the broader public the importance of this groundbreaking technology, which is rapidly evolving from a research topic into a pillar of strategic digital sovereignty and secure communications.

With strong technical expertise and full alignment with European priorities, GRNET plays a key role in the implementation of the National Quantum Communication Infrastructure. This transition is not a distant promise — it is already underway, shaping the level of security and sovereignty for decades to come.

Watch the Action24 segment  here.