The European Commission will provide €47.5 million to the Quantum Internet Alliance as it builds a prototype for full-stack quantum networks. Researchers at the University of Innsbruck and AQT will contribute to this effort, receiving €5.4 million to develop trapped-ion hardware for the project. This prototype will interconnect quantum computers across metropolitan-scale networks using hundreds of kilometres of optical fibre, potentially enabling highly secure communications and networked quantum computing. The project aims to move quantum networking beyond laboratory technologies toward a functioning, programmable network.
QIA Receives €47.5 Million to Prototype Full-Stack Quantum Networks
The Quantum Internet Alliance receives €47.5 million to build a full-stack quantum internet prototype, and will contribute trapped-ion hardware as a partner. This funding designates Innsbruck as a central hub for developing a functional European quantum internet, shifting the focus from isolated laboratory experiments to a programmable, interconnected network. The prototype will use trapped-ion quantum internet nodes and link quantum computers across metropolitan areas via hundreds of kilometers of optical fiber.
This network aims to move beyond secure communication, exploring applications in distributed quantum computing and enhanced timing measurements. Project leaders anticipate the technology will enable new use cases, though specific applications are still under investigation.
The Quantum Internet Alliance, a consortium of over 50 institutions spanning 12 European member states, is leading the effort and serving as the coordinating institution. The QIA stated in a press release that quantum hardware for a prototype quantum internet could support highly secure communications, distributed and networked quantum computing, and more precise timing measurements. Releases Product Finder for Instruments. The new tool makes it easier to quickly explore the available options and identify instruments that match the requirements of your needs.
The European Commission’s grant to QIA emphasises a commitment to establishing a globally competitive quantum internet infrastructure originating in Europe, and the Innsbruck prototype represents a step in realizing that vision. For more information about the Quantum Internet Alliance, visit www.quantuminternetalliance.org.
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