The University of Zagreb Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) is at the forefront of a significant European initiative to establish a secure, satellite-based quantum communication link between Croatia and Germany. This project, known as QuGNOPs (Deployment and Operations of Quantum Ground Nodes), represents a critical step in integrating Croatia into the continent’s future quantum-secure communication infrastructure.
Launched on January 1, 2026, the QuGNOPs project aims to deploy and operate quantum ground nodes in both countries, enabling secure data transmission via the European quantum communication satellite Eagle-1. This collaboration highlights the growing importance of satellite quantum communication and quantum key distribution (QKD) for national and European cybersecurity.
Understanding the QuGNOPs Project and Its Objectives
The primary goal of the QuGNOPs project is to establish the necessary infrastructure for satellite-based quantum communication between Germany and Croatia. This involves setting up optical ground stations in Oberpfaffenhofen near Munich and in Zagreb, which will connect with the Eagle-1 satellite. The project is led by the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and brings together a consortium of partners from both countries.
From the Croatian side, the consortium includes the University of Zagreb Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER), the Ruđer Bošković Institute (IRB), the Croatian Academic and Research Network (CARNET), and the University of Zagreb Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences (FPZ). German partners include the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU) and the DLR Gesellschaft für Raumfahrtanwendungen (GfR), with support from the Croatian Office of the National Security Council (UVNS).
The Role of Satellite Quantum Communication
Satellite quantum communication is a key technology for achieving secure, long-distance quantum key distribution. Unlike terrestrial fiber-optic networks, which have distance limitations, satellites can provide a global reach for quantum-secure links. The Eagle-1 satellite, part of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) initiative, is designed to facilitate these communications across Europe.
The QuGNOPs project will leverage this satellite to demonstrate and operationalize quantum key distribution between the two ground stations. This is a vital step toward building a resilient and secure communication network that is immune to the threats posed by future quantum computers.
FER’s Leadership and Technical Contributions
As a key partner, the University of Zagreb Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) leads a critical work package focused on developing the Croatian QKD ground node. This involves a collaborative effort with IRB, CARNET, and FPZ.
Assoc. Prof. Josip Vuković, PhD, the project leader at FER, emphasized the scope of their work: “FER leads the work package for the development of the Croatian QKD ground node, in cooperation with IRB, CARNET, and FPZ. As part of this effort, the optical ground station in Zagreb will be upgraded with sophisticated equipment required for satellite quantum communications, including adaptive optics and a quantum receiver.”
Integrating with Existing Infrastructure
A significant aspect of the project is ensuring interoperability with the existing Croatian quantum network, CroQCI. By connecting the new satellite ground station to CroQCI, the project opens the possibility of satellite-based interconnection between Croatian nodes and the broader European EuroQCI network. This integration is essential for creating a seamless, secure communication fabric across the continent.
Croatian partners are also involved in defining the overall system architecture and security concept for the project. A major milestone will be the demonstration campaign of satellite quantum communication between Germany and Croatia, which will validate the system’s functionality and performance.
Project Scope, Funding, and Strategic Importance
The QuGNOPs project is a substantial undertaking, with a total duration of 42 months and a budget exceeding EUR 11 million. The project is co-funded through the EU HaDEA call CEF-DIG-2024-EUROQCI, which supports the deployment of the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI). Croatian co-financing and support are provided by the Ministry of Science, Education and Youth.
This investment underscores the strategic importance of the project for both Croatia and the European Union. It represents a concrete step toward integrating Croatia into the European quantum-secure communication infrastructure, which is a priority for safeguarding critical infrastructure and sensitive data in the face of evolving cyber threats.
Contributing to Space Technology Development in Croatia
Beyond its immediate cybersecurity applications, the QuGNOPs project makes a strong contribution to the development of space technologies in Croatia. By participating in a high-profile satellite communication project, Croatian institutions and researchers gain valuable experience and expertise in this advanced field. This can stimulate further research, innovation, and potential commercial opportunities in the space sector.
The project also fosters international collaboration, strengthening ties between Croatian and German academic and research institutions. Such partnerships are vital for advancing scientific knowledge and tackling complex technological challenges.
The Future of Quantum-Secure Communications
The QuGNOPs project is a tangible example of the progress being made in quantum communication technologies. As quantum computers advance, the need for quantum-resistant encryption becomes increasingly urgent. Quantum key distribution, which uses the principles of quantum mechanics to secure key exchange, offers a solution to this challenge.
Satellite-based QKD is particularly promising for global-scale secure communication. Projects like QuGNOPs are laying the groundwork for operational, large-scale quantum communication networks. The lessons learned from this Croatia-Germany link will inform future deployments and help shape the standards and protocols for the EuroQCI and beyond.
Conclusion: A Milestone for Croatian Research and European Security
The launch of the QuGNOPs project marks a significant milestone for the University of Zagreb Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing and its Croatian partners. Their leadership in developing the Croatian ground node and contributing to the project’s architecture and security concepts places them at the cutting edge of quantum communication research.
This initiative not only enhances Croatia’s role in the European quantum landscape but also contributes directly to the continent’s long-term security and technological sovereignty. As the project progresses over the next 42 months, it will provide valuable insights and infrastructure that will benefit the broader EuroQCI network and the future of secure communications.
For students and researchers interested in the fields of telecommunications, photonics, cybersecurity, and space technologies, the work being done at FER and its partner institutions offers a compelling glimpse into the future of engineering and science.
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Learn more about the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) initiative and how projects like QuGNOPs are shaping a secure digital future for Europe.
