Sploro Blog on 03 October 2023

PQ-REACT’s primary objective, is to design, build, and evaluate a framework for a simpler and more quick transition from classical to post-quantum cryptography for a broad spectrum of contexts and usage domains

In the last three decades, public key cryptography has become an indispensable component of global communication digital infrastructure. These networks support a plethora of applications that are important to our economy, our security, and our way of life, such as mobile phones, internet commerce, social networks, and cloud computing. In such a connected world, the ability of individuals, businesses, and governments to communicate securely is of the utmost importance.

At the moment, the quantum threat is theoretical as quantum computers that fulfill the requirements of Shor’s and Grover’s algorithms for long keys are not available. Still, it is evident that widely used RSA, ECDSA, ECDH, and DSA cryptosystems will need to be replaced by post-quantum cryptography (PQC). The need for addressing this problem early enough has been recognized by various relevant organizations, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has started an effort to identify cryptographic algorithms able to withstand quantum computer attacks by 2022 — and make them available by 2024.

The PQ-REACT project

PQ-REACT is a pioneering project aimed at securing the future of cryptography in the quantum era. Funded by the European Commission under the Horizon Europe Research & Innovation programme, it officially started on September 1st, 2023.

The main objective of the PQ-REACT project is to design, develop, and validate a framework for a faster and smoother transition from classical to post-quantum cryptography for a wide variety of contexts and usage domains. This initiative leverages Europe's most powerful Quantum infrastructure.

PQ-REACT Project

PQ-REACT project key components

PQC Migration Paths

The project will establish migration paths from classical cryptography to post-quantum cryptography, ensuring the security of digital communication even in the face of quantum threats.
Cryptographic Agility Methods

A crucial aspect of PQ-REACT is the development of cryptographic agility methods, allowing users to adapt their cryptographic systems to evolving threats and contexts.
Validation Tools

PQ-REACT will create a portfolio of tools for the validation of post-quantum cryptographic systems. These tools will empower users to seamlessly transition to post-quantum cryptography while considering their unique requirements and real-world contexts.
Real-World Pilots

The project will conduct real-world pilots in areas such as Smart Grids, 5G, and Ledgers to ensure the practical applicability of post-quantum cryptography.
Open Calls

PQ-REACT will facilitate open calls for SMEs and other stakeholders to bring and test their PQC algorithms and external pilots on the PQ-REACT Quantum Computing Infrastructure

Consortium

PQ-REACT will work toward its objectives with its highly qualified consortium offering its broad spectrum of expertise and technical skills coordinated by Dr. Akis Kourtis (National Center for Scientific Research “Demokritos” NCSR, Greece).

The consortium comprises 12 partners across 7 EU member states (Greece, Spain, Germany, Italy, Estonia, Poland and Bulgaria), including Universities, Research Centers, IT companies and SMEs.