On 14 October 2026, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) configured and tested its Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) platform on the live network of the dynamic test ranges at Proof & Experimental Establishment (PXE), Chandipur, Odisha. The system is intended to secure real-time observations and telemetry from artillery and armoured weapon tests.
Quantum Key Distribution
Quantum Key Distribution is a method of generating and sharing cryptographic keys using quantum states. It is distinct from encryption: the generated keys are used with encryption methods to protect data. In QKD, attempts to intercept quantum signals can disturb their states, allowing the communicating parties to detect possible eavesdropping.
The DRDO platform was designed and developed under its Microelectronic Devices, Computational Systems & Cyber Security (MCC) cluster. Taqbit Labs, a Bengaluru-based technology company, is the production partner. The platform is designed to provide eavesdropping detection and unconditional security.
Military Field Trials and Performance
In July 2026, DRDO completed military field trials of a scalable, fibre-based QKD system in collaboration with Taqbit Labs. The system was tested over a 100-kilometre optical fibre link between Prayagraj and Vindhyachal in Uttar Pradesh.
The link recorded a measured loss of 26 decibels (dB). The system’s Quantum Bit Error Rate (QBER) was 6 per cent, and its secure key rate was approximately 5 kilobits per second. This key rate was sufficient for secure text and low-bandwidth voice encryption. Taqbit Labs has worked with DRDO on QKD systems for the Indian Armed Forces since 2020.
Applications in Defence Communications
The October test used the platform on the live test-range network for critical observations and telemetry associated with artillery and armoured weapon evaluation. Fibre-based QKD uses optical fibre to carry quantum signals and can be deployed across communication links. The field trials provide a basis for developing larger, multi-hop quantum networks designed to protect communication infrastructure against cyber threats.
Important Facts for Exams
- DRDO is India’s defence research and development agency under the Ministry of Defence.
- PXE is located at Chandipur in Odisha.
- QBER measures the proportion of errors in the bits exchanged during a quantum communication process.
- A decibel is a logarithmic unit used to express signal loss in a communications link.
The DRDO platform was tested on a live test-range network on 14 October 2026. Its July 2026 field trials used a 100-kilometre fibre-optic link in Uttar Pradesh.
