GMV’s role in the evolution of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and standardization of quantum technologies

On October 29th, the Spanish Association for Standardization (UNE), in collaboration with the Technical University of Madrid (UPM) and the European QuTechSpace project, hosted an event known as Quantum Technologies Workshop: European Standardization and Ecosystem. This gathering brought together international experts, European institutions, and leading companies, to analyze the latest advancements and challenges related to standardization of quantum technologies.

The event had a hybrid format and took place at the UNE’s headquarters in Madrid, as part of the larger CEN/CLC JTC22 “Quantum Technologies” plenary meeting. The workshop emphasized the key role of standardization for developing the European quantum ecosystem.

Some of the most notable presentations included the one on QuTechSpace, which is an initiative centered on quantum satellite communication, and on the standardization requirements associated with implementation of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). This session was moderated by Vicente Martín (UPM), with participation by specialists on the subject from GMV, HISPASAT, and the LaiQa project. GMV’s presentation emphasized the strategic importance of the space segment for future implementation of QKD, while also stressing the need to define standards that will ensure interoperability and security.

The event concluded with a roundtable discussion dedicated to the quantum technology ecosystem in Spain, which included participation by Enrique Crespo, GMV’s Quantum Technologies Solutions Leader. He explained his company’s role in promoting quantum standardization, and the position it has achieved in relation to QKD solutions (such as QuKee).

With more than 100 attendees, the workshop reaffirmed the UNE’s commitment to the importance of standardization, as a driver of Europe’s competitiveness and technological maturity in the field of quantum technologies.