Quantum communication promises to be significantly faster in the future. Eurofiber and Delft Networks have established a dark fiber connection between the Dutch cities of Delft and Rotterdam to make that promise a reality. This connection is suitable for so-called entanglement-based quantum networks and serves as a test environment for applications within existing fiber-optic infrastructure for a quantum internet.
The goal of both parties is to investigate how effectively entangled quantum states can be distributed across a conventional network. Eurofiber is providing the infrastructure for the test environment, while Delft Networks is contributing its expertise in quantum networks to the project.
Ultimately, the project should lead to stable quantum connections between on-chip quantum memories across metropolitan distances. While that hardware, in particular, is far from production-ready, experiments involving quantum chips are being conducted at a rapid pace worldwide. It is therefore essential to have all the infrastructure in place by the time production is ready.
The new test line focuses on potential obstacles for quantum networks, such as signal attenuation, synchronization, and integration into existing telecom networks. Once this is fully operational, secure, high-speed coordination between remote nodes will be possible, enabling quantum computers to connect with one another and collectively apply their computing power to workloads.
Building on QuTech
Delft Networks was spun off from QuTech, the quantum research institute at TU Delft, in 2024. That institute had already transmitted quantum bits over a network in 2022. In 2024, QuTech also linked quantum processors in Delft and The Hague via 25 kilometers of existing underground telecom fiber-optic cable. According to TU Delft, this was the first time quantum processors in different cities had been connected in this way.
Delft Networks CEO Ronald Hanson states that the new application has great potential. “By applying entanglement via operational telecom networks, we can better understand and address practical limitations, and accelerate the transition from research and development to large-scale deployment,” he says.
Eurofiber is increasingly focusing on quantum technology
Eurofiber, for its part, already has a strong presence in the field of operational quantum applications. The company is also collaborating with Qbird on securing digital infrastructure.
Funding for the Delft–Rotterdam project comes from QDNL Delft’s Regional Quantum Program. This program involves the province of South Holland, the Rotterdam–The Hague Metropolitan Region, and the municipalities of Delft, Leiden, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Delft Networks itself receives support from, among others, the European Innovation Council and the Quantum Internet Alliance of the EU Quantum Flagship.