The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), and Honeywell have launched a joint initiative to develop quantum-secure satellite communication systems designed to protect sensitive information across global networks.
As quantum computing capabilities continue to evolve, traditional encryption methods are coming under increasing pressure. Quantum key distribution (QKD) offers a future-proof solution by using the quantum properties of light to generate encryption keys that are inherently immune to interception and secure against emerging computing threats.
Under this collaboration, Honeywell’s ‘QKDSat’ platform will be integrated with TII’s ground-based infrastructure – the Abu Dhabi Quantum Optical Ground Station (ADQOGS) – to establish and test end-to-end QKD links between satellites and terrestrial quantum networks. The initiative represents a key step toward building quantum-resilient communication infrastructure capable of safeguarding critical data for government, security, and commercial applications.
Dr. Najwa Aaraj, CEO of TII, said: “This collaboration is a significant step toward building global quantum-secure networks in the UAE and beyond. It brings together Honeywell’s track record in aerospace innovation and TII’s expertise in quantum technologies to address one of the most pressing challenges of the digital era: how we protect our most critical information in a quantum-powered future.”
Lisa Napolitano, Vice President and General Manager, Honeywell Aerospace Technologies said: “Turning quantum science into operational capability requires proven space engineering. Honeywell’s heritage in secure satellite systems allows us to take these concepts from laboratory testing to real-world missions. Teaming up with TII ensures that together we’re advancing technologies that can deliver trusted, quantum-secure communications on a global scale.”
Developed and operated by TII, ADQOGS is a versatile optical ground station designed to support a range of satellite-based quantum communication experiments – methods used to encode information onto particles of light so they can transmit encryption keys securely between space and Earth. Its integration with Honeywell’s QKDSat platform will allow experts to test and validate quantum-backed encryption methods under realistic satellite operating conditions, demonstrating long-distance QKD links and overcoming the distance limitations of fiber-based quantum networks – opening the door to truly global quantum communication that is not constrained by terrestrial infrastructure.
The collaboration underscores both organizations’ commitment to developing trusted, quantum-secure communication systems, and highlights Abu Dhabi’s growing role in shaping the future of global cybersecurity innovation.
