Technology

Quantum communication between Russia and China

This event marks an important breakthrough in the world of information technology and security, where the highlight of this China-Russia collaboration is the successful use of China's Mozi quantum satellite, which was used to transmit secure encryption keys over an impressive distance of about 4,000 kilometers. Connecting a ground station near Moscow with another near Urumqi in China.

The biggest challenge of this feat was the distribution of quantum keys via optical fiber, with no photon loss occurring over long distances, generally limiting transmission to about 1,000 kilometers. The Mozi satellite made a difference throughout the process, enabling quantum transmissions over long distances and overcoming the barriers faced by fiber-optic networks.

Significant implications of this achievement are focused on situations where information security is relevant and a priority, such as the financial, government and defense sectors. Quantum communication offers security shielding far beyond that of current channels.

In a publication of the South China Morning Post (SCMP), it highlights Russia's technological ambition to position itself as a leader in quantum communication, extending to the idea of working with the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) to create a large quantum communication network.

On the other hand, developing a macro-scale quantum communication network can present a myriad of challenges, from overcoming technical hurdles, such as creating and establishing the compatible physical structure between different countries involved and sustaining the integrity and security of quantum keys over long distances, to considering the current and future political and economic agreements and treaties between the BRICS nations.

Quantum communication will continue to provide significant and attractive advances in the future, it would be interesting to know how far the real scope of this project is and how long it will take to achieve it. To read more, https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3246752/china-and-russia-test-hack-proof-quantum-communication-link-brics-countries?module=inline&pgtype=article

27 de Febrero, 2024