'Preparing for 6G' KT Develops Quantum Encryption Technology for Aviation and Aerospace with Hanwha Systems

Development of Ultra-Long-Distance Wireless Quantum Cryptography Technology for Aviation and Aerospace
Securing Next-Generation Core Technology for the 6G Satellite Communication Era

KT Convergence Technology Institute Director Kim Ihan (left) and Hanwha Systems Command and Control Business Division Head Kim Jungho are taking a commemorative photo after signing the memorandum of understanding.

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Hye-sun] KT announced on the 12th that it will collaborate with Hanwha Systems to develop quantum cryptography communication technology for aviation and aerospace in preparation for the 6G era.

Kim Ihan, Director of KT Convergence Technology Institute, and Kim Jeongho, Head of Command and Control Business Division at Hanwha Systems, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for joint development of quantum cryptography communication technology for aviation and aerospace at KT Umyeon Research Center in Seocho-gu, Seoul.

Through this collaboration, the two companies will jointly develop interconnection technology between aviation and aerospace communication and quantum cryptography communication, and will also explore business opportunities together. To this end, a quantum cryptography network will be established between each company's research institutes within this year.

Securing wireless quantum cryptography communication technology for aviation and aerospace will enable stable secure communication not only in mountainous, maritime, and aerial environments but also in remote areas. In particular, it will strengthen communication security for key national security systems such as overseas diplomatic missions and dispatched overseas units, and can also be applied to economic and social infrastructure such as Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and autonomous vehicles.

Through this cooperation, KT is expected to acquire satellite communication technology applying quantum cryptography communication and lay the foundation necessary for future satellite communication security services. Hanwha Systems, having recently invested in global low-earth orbit satellite communication businesses and entered the space internet market, is expected to pre-secure safety and security for global satellite communication business.

Quantum cryptography communication is next-generation security communication technology that utilizes photons, the smallest unit of light. Currently, overseas, there is active competition among countries to secure technology leadership, with technology development and demonstrations underway for wireless quantum cryptography communication with satellites and aircraft.