C-DOT, Synergy Join Forces for Drone-Based Quantum Key Distribution

The partnership aims to drive innovation in the rapidly evolving field of quantum-secure communication through the development of Drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems.

In a landmark move that underscores India’s commitment to emerging secure communication technologies, the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT)—the premier telecom R&D organization under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India—has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Synergy Quantum India Private Limited. The partnership aims to drive innovation in the rapidly evolving field of quantum-secure communication through the development of Drone-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems.

A Strategic Push Towards Quantum-Secure Communication

This forward-looking initiative is rooted in India’s broader objective to establish a self-reliant, digitally resilient nation under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” mission. The MoU sets the stage for a strategic collaboration that seeks to develop and deploy advanced QKD systems using drone platforms—a first-of-its-kind endeavor in the Indian context.

By employing the decoy-based BB84 protocol with polarization encoding, the project targets the achievement of Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 or higher. This milestone implies that the technology would not only be validated in relevant environments but would also be mature enough for real-world field testing and deployment scenarios.

Partnership Overview and Scope of Collaboration

The MoU outlines a multifaceted framework of collaboration between C-DOT and Synergy Quantum, focusing on joint research, development, and dissemination of quantum-secure communication technologies. The key areas of cooperation include:

• Development of Drone-Based QKD Systems: The central focus is on creating highly mobile, secure communication channels using drones. These QKD systems are expected to safeguard sensitive data transmission, particularly in areas lacking conventional telecom infrastructure.

• Protocol Advancement: Leveraging the BB84 protocol—a pioneering quantum cryptography scheme—augmented with decoy states and polarization encoding, the systems are designed to be tamper-proof and immune to conventional cyber threats.

• Research Collaboration and Funding Proposals: The two entities will jointly submit proposals for national and international R&D funding, further fueling India’s presence in the global quantum tech landscape.

• Academic and Industrial Dissemination: Beyond technology development, the partnership also includes organizing symposia, conferences, expert talks, and publishing scholarly articles and white papers, thereby enhancing India’s knowledge base and visibility in quantum sciences.

Voices from the Leaders

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, CEO of C-DOT, highlighted the strategic importance of public-private partnerships. “The convergence of public R&D and private innovation is essential to shaping a secure and self-reliant digital future for India. Quantum technologies hold immense promise for next-generation secure communications, and this collaboration with Synergy Quantum reflects our shared vision of accelerating indigenous capabilities in this critical domain,” he stated. “By combining our research depth with industry agility, we aim to jointly develop solutions that not only address national priorities but also contribute to India’s emergence as a global player in quantum innovation.”

Mr. Jay Oberoi, Founder and CEO of Synergy Quantum India, echoed similar sentiments. “This partnership has the potential to position India as a global leader in drone-based quantum secure communications. We are excited to work with C-DOT, whose R&D expertise perfectly complements our technological ambitions.”

Ceremonial Signing and Vision Forward

The signing ceremony was graced by notable dignitaries, including Dr. Rajkumar Upadhyay, Dr. Pankaj Dalela, and Ms. Shikha Srivastava from C-DOT, alongside Mr. Jay Oberoi, Mr. Ajay Singh (COO), Dr. Vipin Rathi, and AM G S Bedi from Synergy Quantum. Senior officials from both organizations also attended the event, reflecting the strategic importance of this alliance.

This collaboration is expected to revolutionize secure communication infrastructure in sectors like defence, emergency services, critical infrastructure management, and classified government communications. Drone-based quantum communication has the potential to overcome geographic and infrastructural limitations, offering secure, scalable, and cost-effective solutions in both urban and remote settings.

Quantum Leap Towards Global Leadership

India’s foray into drone-based quantum communication is not just about national security—it’s also a declaration of intent on the global stage. With countries like the USA, China, and members of the European Union actively advancing quantum technologies, India’s partnership between C-DOT and Synergy Quantum signals its readiness to not just participate but lead in the development of quantum-secure telecommunications.

Through this initiative, India is laying the groundwork for a future where data is transmitted not only faster and more efficiently but with unprecedented levels of security—a necessity in the age of increasing cyber threats and geopolitical complexities.