The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency has demonstrated the first functioning quantum-augmented network as part of its new Quantum-Augmented Network initiative.
DARPA said Thursday its QuANET program aims to unify classical and quantum communication technologies to develop a more secure and resilient networking infrastructure.
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Rapid Data Transmission Time Unlocked
During the demonstration, conducted 10 months after the program’s launch, messages were transmitted across the entire network using a combination of classical and quantum links, with one link managing to encode messages onto squeezed light. After leveraging real-time optimization, a record-breaking transmission time of 0.7 milliseconds was achieved. With a bit rate of 6.8 Mbps, the speed is sufficient for streaming high-definition videos.
Enhancing Network Efficiency and Security
The program also focuses on deploying hyperentangled photons into a data packet transmission to enable more data to be transmitted at the same time. This will not only enhance efficiency but also reinforce the network’s security.
“By enabling quantum links to operate within existing communication network architectures, we’re unlocking the potential for broader access to quantum network technology, offering a new pathway towards significantly improved security, efficiency, privacy and resiliency,” said QuANET Program Manager Allyson O’Brien.
QuANET is currently preparing for its first phase test event, which will showcase DARPA’s quantum-classical architecture using fielded fiber optics, optical switches and routers to transmit and receive data.
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