Quantum-Secured Space-Air-Ground Integrated Networks: Concept, Framework, and Case Study

TL;DR

This paper introduces a quantum-secured space-air-ground integrated network (SAGIN) concept, proposing a framework for quantum key distribution (QKD) services to ensure secure communications across diverse nodes, demonstrated through a Metaverse case study.

Contribution

It presents a novel quantum-secured SAGIN concept and a universal QKD service framework that reduces costs and handles uncertainties in secure space-air-ground communications.

Findings

Feasible quantum-secured SAGIN concept proposed.

Universal QKD service framework minimizes costs.

Effective secure communication in Metaverse case study.

Abstract

In the upcoming 6G era, existing terrestrial networks have evolved toward space-air-ground integrated networks (SAGIN), providing ultra-high data rates, seamless network coverage, and ubiquitous intelligence for communications of applications and services. However, conventional communications in SAGIN still face data confidentiality issues. Fortunately, the concept of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) over SAGIN is able to provide information-theoretic security for secure communications in SAGIN with quantum cryptography. Therefore, in this paper, we propose the quantum-secured SAGIN which is feasible to achieve proven secure communications using quantum mechanics to protect data channels between space, air, and ground nodes. Moreover, we propose a universal QKD service provisioning framework to minimize the cost of QKD services under the uncertainty and dynamics of communications in quantum-secured SAGIN. In this framework, fiber-based QKD services are deployed in passive optical networks with the advantages of low loss and high stability. Moreover, the widely covered and flexible satellite- and UAV-based QKD services are provisioned as a supplement during the real-time data transmission phase. Finally, to examine the effectiveness of the proposed concept and framework, a case study of quantum-secured SAGIN in the Metaverse is conducted where uncertain and dynamic factors of the secure communications in Metaverse applications are effectively resolved in the proposed framework.