Long Distance Daylight Drone-based Quantum Key Distribution under Relative Motion

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates a kilometer-scale drone-based quantum key distribution network with adaptive polarization correction, enabling secure quantum communication between moving drones and ground vehicles over practical distances.

Contribution

It introduces a novel polarization correction technology and presents the first kilometer-scale drone-based QKD network, advancing practical dynamic quantum communication.

Findings

Achieved 1.2 km free-space QKD with 2.76 kbps secure key rate.

Validated QKD between drone and ground vehicle at 1 m/s over 100 m, with 70.94 kbps.

Transitioned drone-based QKD from static to dynamic network demonstration.

Abstract

Low-altitude drones can serve as dynamic nodes apparently mitigating terrain-induced impacts for quantum networks. However, it is extremely hard to establish a sable quantum link in a drone-based dynamic platform, which requires centimeter-level positioning techniques and high-precision time synchronization technologies. In this paper, we develop a single-ended polarization adaptive correction technology at both the transmitting and receiving ends. Based on this, we present the world's first kilometer-scale drone-based QKD network, achieving an 1.2 km free-space QKD link with a secure key rate of 2.76 kbps, suitable for urban quantum network deployment. We validate the feasibility of QKD between dynamic drone and ground unmanned vehicle at a relative speed of 1 m/s over a distance of 100 m, attaining a secure key rate of 70.94 kbps. This work advances drone-based QKD from static demonstrations to practical dynamic network, boasting great development potential for an airborne quantum internet.