Quantum FVG
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Quantum FVG project: quantum communication network in Friuli Venezia Giulia, connecting the University of Udine, University of Trieste and SISSA, enabling secure communication through a fiber-optic infrastructure. Another link will connect the infrastructure to CNR in Basovizza.
The Quantum FVG project focuses on creating the first regional quantum communication infrastructure using fiber optics. Key activities include:
- A Quantum Communication Laboratory (QCI lab) is operational since 2024 in Basovizza. This lab conducts research in secure quantum communication including the simultaneous transmission of classical (IP) and quantum communication in the same optical fiber, and serves as an educational hub for physics students.
- Laying the groundwork for a fiber-optic quantum network connecting the University of Trieste, the University of Udine and SISSA. An additional segment will connect the network to the QCI lab in Basovizza.
- Supporting the region’s connection to national and cross-border quantum networks, including links to Slovenia and Austria.
This project not only fosters regional collaboration but also positions Friuli Venezia Giulia at the forefront of quantum communication in Europe.
QuFree
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QuFree project: establishing a quantum key distribution (QKD) link between port and ship using free-space communication. This innovation supports secure maritime communication and sets the foundation for future satellite-based quantum networks.
The QuFree project explores the potential of free-space quantum communication, paving the way for future satellite-based links. Highlights include:
- Developing a free space quantum key distribution (QKD) system for secure communication between ground stations and mobile platforms, such as ships.
- Preparing the foundation for long-term goals, including satellite demonstrators for inter-port and port-to-ship quantum links.
QuFree represents a crucial step toward the realization of secure, global-scale quantum communication networks.
Equip-FVG
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Equip-FVG project: A permanent fiber-optic quantum network in Friuli Venezia Giulia, designed to enable secure quantum communication and support maritime and logistics operations in ports and nearby areas.
The Extended Quantum Infrastructure Project (Equip-FVG) is an ambitious initiative to establish a permanent fiber-optic quantum network in Friuli Venezia Giulia. Key objectives include:
- Supporting secure quantum communication for maritime and logistics applications in ports and surrounding areas.
- Creating a robust ecosystem involving public and private stakeholders, research centers, and industries to develop quantum technologies and use cases.
- Enabling full digitalization of the region’s transport and logistics sectors while connecting to broader European quantum networks.
Equip-FVG aims to position Friuli Venezia Giulia as a quantum hub, integrating terrestrial and satellite communication systems to ensure long-term innovation and connectivity.
The three projects are funded by the Friuli Venezia Giulia Regional Authority and are developed in collaboration with LightNet, the academic and research network of Friuli Venezia Giulia.
Demonstrations
To showcase the potential of these quantum technologies, we carried out two major demonstrations, which had national and international relevance:
- ESOF 2020 Demonstration: A live demonstration of quantum communication during the closing ceremony of the EuroScience Open Forum (ESOF 2020), featuring the Prime Minister G. Conte. This event, the first of its kind in Italy, highlighted the practical feasibility of secure quantum communication within regional networks.
- G20 Showcase (2021): During the G20 summit on Research and Innovation held in Trieste, we demonstrated an international quantum-secure communication system, connecting Italy (Trieste), Slovenia (Ljubljana) and Croatia (Rijeka). This was the first time a three-country QKD demonstration was organized.
These demonstrations not only proved the operational capabilities of quantum communication systems but also served to promote Friuli Venezia Giulia as a leader in this emerging field.