Post-Quantum Cryptography Platform

This proposal is to accelerate the Air Force's preparation for the dangers of quantum decryption threats with a new “Quantum Encryptor” line of VPN devices. We plan to take an existing line of high security network encryptors and add software and hardware updates to support post-quantum cryptography (PQC) functionality. This includes a future upgrade with a new quantum photonic semiconductor part which is already underway. Among other things, this chip will generate optimal entropy – the basis of all cryptography – using fundamental quantum physics and will drive the PQC functions at vastly higher throughputs with improved quality. As our military should be one of the leading institutions in understanding and countering the quantum threat to encryption, this project gives the Air Force practical experience and working technologies by developing a test bed with critical future capabilities.