QUBITECH is a cutting-edge technology company specializing in the development and advancement of quantum technologies. With a focus on innovation, QUBITECH is at the forefront of research and development in quantum photonic systems, specifically working on the creation of a Quantum Photonic Ising Simulator.  In addition to its pioneering work in quantum computing, QUBITECH is actively involved in the field of post-quantum cryptography, developing encryption methods designed to withstand the future capabilities of quantum computers. This work ensures the security of data in an era where traditional cryptographic systems may become vulnerable to quantum attacks. QUBITECH, among other initiatives that participates, is also a key member of the HellasQCI project, aimed at establishing a robust QKD infrastructure in Greece. This infrastructure will play a crucial role in securing communications using the principles of quantum mechanics, safeguarding sensitive information from potential cyber threats and enhancing the security of critical digital systems across various sectors. By focusing on these core areas—quantum computing, post-quantum cryptography, and secure quantum communications—QUBITECH is actively contributing to the rapidly evolving quantum technology landscape, driving forward the future of secure and high-performance computing.

In the context of HellasQCI, QUBITECH’s role is multifaceted, contributing significantly to quantum cryptographic security, authentication mechanisms, and outreach efforts. It supports the Phase 0 network emulation and experimental setup of the project, offering its vast knowledge and expertise in Physical Unclonable Function (PUF) technology. More specifically, QUBITECH proposes and realizes a PUF/QKD authentication scheme, utilizing its in-house  PUF instance, to ensure robust authentication for dynamically expanding QKD networks whilereducing the reliance on traditional cryptographic infrastructures vulnerable to quantum threats. This contribution strengthens the robustness and security of HellasQCI’s hybrid authentication mechanisms, ensuring a more resilient quantum communication framework. The implementation of this PUF/QKD authentication scheme will first be demonstrated in the EDU testbed during Phase 0, and later extended to all switched-QKD demonstrations, in Phases 1 and 2 (WP3).

In addition to authentication, QUBITECH is actively exploring the development of a quantum-safe messaging and communication application designed to support secure voice, image, and video communication. This application will leverage QKD keys provided by the HellasQCI network at selected nodes (GRNET and NKUA/ICCS or NCSRD), enabling the benchmarking of QKD integration with various encryption methodologies. This effort will help evaluate potential implementation bottlenecks, and ensure the seamless adoption of quantum-secure communications (WP4, Use Case 15). Also, QUBITECH supports Use Case 14 by providing the integral components for the envisioned PUF-based authentication for switched QKD (WP4, Use Case 14).

Furthermore, QUBITECH leads Task 6.1, which focuses on defining and implementing outreach, dissemination, and communication strategies for the project. This role is essential for promoting HellasQCI’s impact, and fostering engagement with stakeholders across academia, industry, and government. By bridging technical innovation with strategic communication and industry engagement, QUBITECH amplifies the impact of HellasQCI, contributing to the European quantum ecosystem and the broader EuroQCI initiative.