AROBS Polska, part of the AROBS Group, has been selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop and implement the Post-Quantum Cryptography Algorithms for Satellite Telecommunication Applications (PQC ASTrAL) project.
The aim of the project is to develop a cryptography system for satellites based on post-quantum algorithms, which will ensure that communications are protected from the new threats posed by quantum computers.
The development of quantum computing poses significant challenges for cybersecurity, with the potential risk of compromising traditional cryptographic algorithms. To counter this risk, the PQC ASTrAL project aims to implement a cryptographic system that is resistant to quantum attacks, enabling satellites to perform authentication, digital signatures and encryption in a secure and sustainable manner in the long term. The initiative is part of the Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) Space Systems for Safety and Security (4S) programme in the European Space Agency’s Directorate of Communications and Secure Communications.
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The company is the prime contractor responsible for developing the hardware and firmware hosting the cryptographic IP core, as well as the associated software. ResQuant, a company specialising in cryptographic solutions implemented in hardware, is a subcontractor responsible for the cryptographic aspects of the project.
“We are delighted that AROBS Polska has been selected for another ESA project. The rapid advancements in quantum computers pose a major challenge to cybersecurity, as traditional encryption systems become vulnerable to the exceptional processing power of future quantum computers. The compromise of cryptographic keys can have serious consequences, ranging from unauthorized interception of communications to the takeover of devices. In this context, the solution developed by AROBS Polska within the PQC ASTrAL project is a necessary response to a real threat, contributing to the long-term security of satellite communications,” stated Voicu Oprean, Founder and CEO of AROBS.
Quantum computer advancements raise significant cybersecurity challenges, with the potential to compromise traditional cryptographic algorithms. To counter this risk, PQC ASTrAL aims to implement a cryptographic system resistant to quantum attacks, allowing satellites to perform authentication, digital signatures, and encryption in a secure and sustainable manner over the long term.
In this project, AROBS Polska is the prime contractor responsible for developing the hardware and firmware hosting the cryptographic IP core, as well as the associated software. ResQuant, a company specializing in hardware-implemented cryptographic solutions, is the subcontractor and is responsible for the cryptographic aspects of the project.
“Securing satellite communications is a complex challenge, especially for long-duration devices with limited physical access. Updating software, cryptographic certificates, and key negotiation mechanisms are critical processes for maintaining security, yet vulnerabilities in current systems might allow attacks through forged digital signatures or compromised cryptographic keys. With the rapid advancements in quantum computers, traditional cryptographic standards no longer provide long-term security guarantees. By integrating post-quantum algorithms and implementing security mechanisms in hardware, PQC ASTrAL significantly reduces these risks by separating cryptographic processing from core systems and minimizing vulnerabilities to cyberattacks. This approach ensures a high level of security for satellite communications, anticipating the industry needs for the years to come,” added Michał Szwajewski, CEO AROBS Polska.
The developed system will enable the generation and management of cryptographic keys both on satellites and at mission control stations, encryption and authentication of data, the secure authentication and verification of keys using post-quantum methods standardised in August 2024 by U.S. NIST, as well as the distribution and validation of software packages for satellites. The solution is designed to comply with international security standards and will be compatible with SpaceWire and SpaceFibre, two high-speed aerospace communication protocols that facilitate data transfer between on-board satellite systems and other spacecraft.
“By integrating post-quantum algorithms and implementing security mechanisms in hardware, PQC ASTrAL significantly reduces these risks by separating cryptographic processing from core systems and minimising vulnerabilities to cyberattacks and hardware failures. This approach ensures a high level of security for satellite communications, anticipating the industry needs for the years to come,” said Michał Szwajewski, CEO AROBS Polska.
ESA’s Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications, Laurent Jaffart, noted that national security agencies across Europe are urging the transition of critical infrastructure to post-quantum cryptography.
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