Sparkle and Hellas Sat Launch Quantum-Resistant Satellite Link

Italian telecom company Sparkle has partnered with Hellas Sat to launch a pioneering quantum-resistant satellite link connecting Greece and Cyprus. This initiative represents the first such connection between the two countries, according to a recent announcement.

The newly established link connects Sparkle's data center in Athens with Hellas Sat's facilities in Cyprus, utilizing an operational satellite channel that spans approximately 72,000 kilometers.

To enhance security, the firms have deployed the Quantum Safe Interconnect (QSI) solution, which enables quantum-resistant key delivery along with automatic key rotation over an IPsec-based connection. This advanced technology aims to protect satellite communications from future risks associated with quantum computing.

Earlier in March, Sparkle and Hellas Sat successfully conducted tests of the QSI technology between two data centers in Greece, setting the stage for further evaluations within satellite infrastructure.

Looking ahead, the companies are exploring the potential for commercial quantum-resistant satellite services tailored for corporate clients with remote and critical operations.

In a related development, it is significant to note that the International Organization for Standardization included the post-quantum algorithm Classic McEliece in its asymmetric encryption standard in July.