Thales Alenia Space Quantum Division

Thales Alenia Space is a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), founded in 2007 and headquartered in Cannes, France, with quantum technology division developing space-based quantum communications systems. In January 2025, Thales Alenia Space partnered with Hispasat to develop the QKD-GEO prototype, Spain’s quantum key distribution system from geostationary orbit, with 103.5 million euro budget. Thales Alenia Space leads a large industrial consortium including Spanish and European companies, with participation from entities specialized in quantum communications: Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands (IAC), Polytechnic University of Madrid, and University of Vigo. The company develops quantum payloads for geostationary satellites and associated ground segments for quantum-secure communications from space. Field test campaigns are planned between La Palma and Tenerife covering 140-km atmospheric links. Thales Alenia Space serves government agencies, defense organizations, telecommunications operators, and critical infrastructure sectors requiring satellite-based quantum key distribution for ultra-secure space-to-ground communications.

2025 Developments: Development of quantum networking infrastructure and protocols continues in 2025. Research efforts focus on extending quantum communication range and reliability. Partnerships with telecommunications providers expand deployment opportunities.

Company Information

• Founded: 2007
• Country: France
• Website: https://www.thalesaleniaspace.com
• Categories: quantum communications, QKD, quantum security, aerospace

Key People

Hervé Derrey (CEO)

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