In a major leap toward building a secure and technologically advanced future, India has achieved a significant milestone in quantum communication. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, has successfully conducted quantum-secure communication using quantum entanglement over a distance of more than one kilometre. This achievement is not just a scientific feat but a crucial step in strengthening India’s national security and cyber defence capabilities in the digital age.
🚨 India made a quantum breakthrough as the DRDO and IIT Delhi conducted quantum-secure communication using quantum entanglement over a distance of more than one km.
Even if someone has advanced hacking tools, they can’t secretly intercept the message without being detected.… pic.twitter.com/yr0d45C79t
— Indian Tech & Infra (@IndianTechGuide) June 17, 2025
Quantum communication is a cutting-edge technology that uses the laws of quantum physics to enable highly secure information transfer. A core aspect of this method is quantum entanglement, a process in which two particles are interconnected in such a way that a change in one instantly influences the other, no matter the distance between them. This property is now being used to create a communication system where any attempt to intercept the message by a third party immediately alters the system and alerts both the sender and receiver. In other words, even the most advanced hacking tools or supercomputers cannot secretly access the data without being detected.
This level of security is far superior to traditional encryption methods, which can eventually be cracked by powerful computers. As technology continues to evolve, especially with the rise of quantum computing, older encryption techniques are becoming increasingly vulnerable. But quantum communication is future-proof, it doesn’t just make hacking difficult; it makes it physically impossible without detection. This makes it ideal for sensitive communications in sectors like defence, finance, intelligence, and government operations.
India’s achievement in this field holds considerable importance on the international stage. Countries such as the United States, China, and members of the European Union have been investing heavily in quantum technologies. With this successful experiment, India has joined the ranks of nations making serious progress in quantum communication. It also reflects the country’s growing capability to develop indigenous solutions in high-end scientific domains, reducing dependence on foreign technology.
This accomplishment also aligns with the goals of India’s National Quantum Mission, which aims to boost research and development in quantum computing, cryptography, sensing, and materials. The mission is expected to lay the foundation for India’s leadership in next-generation technologies. The recent breakthrough is a step toward building a quantum communication network across the country, which could eventually connect government offices, military units, research labs, and even commercial establishments through ultra-secure lines.
As per DRDO and IIT Delhi, the experiment successfully transmitted quantum-entangled photons through a free-space channel spanning more than one kilometre. While this may seem like a short range in today’s communication standards, it is a crucial first step. Scaling up such systems will eventually enable city-to-city and even satellite-based secure communications, paving the way for a future quantum internet.
Over time, this technology holds immense potential for a wide range of applications. Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) systems could be used to send encryption keys that are guaranteed to be secure, ensuring safe transfer of classified data. Communication systems used by the armed forces, intelligence agencies, banks, and other critical services will benefit immensely from this kind of protection. Even commercial sectors, like healthcare and digital payments, could adopt quantum-secure systems to safeguard data from growing cyber threats.
This success story of DRDO and IIT Delhi demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration between defence agencies and academic institutions. It reflects India’s commitment to being at the forefront of technological advancement, particularly in areas that will define the future of security and communication.
