Singtel unveils Southeast Asia’s first quantum-safe network

Singtel unveils Southeast Asia’s first quantum-safe network is profiled by BTW Media because published evidence links it to internet infrastructure, governance, operational dependencies, or market visibility.

• Singtel develops Singapore’s first quantum-safe network, aiming to secure the country against quantum threats for the next decade.
• The initiative includes a three-stage pilot program, integrating quantum security solutions and extending protection to new applications, with a focus on raising awareness and ensuring readiness for the quantum age.

OUR TAKE
SingTel has taken a significant step forward in the field of quantum secure networks, becoming the first in Southeast Asia to launch a nationwide quantum secure network. This initiative not only signifies Singapore’s leadership in the field of quantum computing security, but also provides a new reference for the development of quantum security technology globally. Through this network, SingTel is committed to protecting organisations from the potential threats posed by quantum computing, as well as advancing the application of quantum security technology in a wider range of areas.
–Elodie Qian, BTW reporter

What happened

Singtel was selected by the Infocomm Media Development Authority to spearhead the development of Singapore’s first Nationwide Quantum-Safe Network (NQSN+) in 2023, with an aim to fortify the nation against quantum threats for the coming decade.

The NQSN+, as its name suggests, integrates cutting-edge quantum security measures to safeguard businesses from quantum-based threats. It also supports a variety of network and security devices, catering to the needs of Singaporean enterprises seeking to secure their communications in line with the advancements in computing power.

A quantum computer is a computer that utilises the principles of quantum mechanics for information processing, and is capable of performing a large number of calculations simultaneously through quantum bits (qubits), thereby dramatically exceeding the processing power of conventional computers for specific tasks.

The quantum threat refers to the potential cracking ability of quantum computers, which are able to rapidly solve certain types of problems that may take an impractical amount of time for conventional computers to solve. In particular, quantum computers have the ability to break encryption algorithms that are currently in widespread use, which could jeopardise financial transactions, the security of communications and the confidentiality of personal data.

Singtel is initiating a three-stage pilot program for the NQSN+. This program encompasses exploration workshops to raise awareness and establish use cases, integration testbeds for interoperability validation, and live trials to gain insights into network behavior, operational aspects, and to experience comprehensive managed services.

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Why it’s important

“Singtel has always played a central role in our nation’s security,” said Mr Ng Tian Chong, Chief Executive Officer, Singtel Singapore. “Though quantum computing may be in its nascent stages, it’s fast gaining velocity across critical information sectors, especially banking, healthcare and government services, and we want to ensure Singapore is ready for it.”

“That’s why we specially-curated this programme to equip enterprises with the relevant skills and knowledge so they can take the necessary steps to future-proof their critical networks against potential quantum threats. We encourage all enterprises who are keen to bolster their digital resilience to reach out to us so they can be prepared for the quantum age.”

The global landscape is witnessing a surge in quantum-safe network projects. Recently, TIM’s subsea cable business, Sparkle, announced the completion of a Quantum-Safe Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) Proof of Concept, with plans for a commercial launch by year-end. Earlier, the company reported the successful test of an international VPN protected by quantum encryption.

Telefonica collaborated with Fortinet, Quantum Xchange, and Iberian technology integrator Warpcom to develop a new quantum security proof of concept, which is “ready to be tested in a production environment by organizations anywhere in the world.”

Towards the end of last year, Nokia, alongside the Greek research consortium HellasQCI, announced a hybrid quantum-safe network trial. This trial involved stress testing critical infrastructure across various sectors, including government, research and education, defense, law enforcement, and the private sector.

Concurrently, SK Telecom and digital security firm Thales tested quantum-resistant cryptography on a 5G standalone network.

At the national strategic level, Singapore announced a national quantum strategy in May this year, investing nearly $220 million in the development of quantum technology over the next five years, including the launch of the first “Made in Singapore” quantum computer, and striving to seize the lead in global quantum research.