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Cluj-Napoca, March 13, 2025 – AROBS Polska, part of the AROBS Group, an entrepreneurial technology company listed on the Bucharest Stock Exchange, has been selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) to develop and implement the Post-Quantum Cryptography Algorithms for Satellite Telecommunication Applications (PQC ASTrAL) project. This project, carried out under the ESA Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES) Space Systems for Safety and Security (4S) program within ESA’s Connectivity and Secure Communications directorate, aims to develop a cryptographic system for satellites based on post-quantum algorithms, ensuring the protection of communications against emerging threats posed by quantum computers.
“We are delighted that AROBS Polska has been selected for another ESA project. The rapid advancements in quantum computers pose a major challenge to cybersecurity, as traditional encryption systems become vulnerable to the exceptional processing power of future quantum computers. The compromise of cryptographic keys can have serious consequences, ranging from unauthorized interception of communications to the takeover of devices. In this context, the solution developed by AROBS Polska within the PQC ASTrAL project is a necessary response to a real threat, contributing to the long-term security of satellite communications,” stated Voicu Oprean, Founder and CEO of AROBS.
Quantum computer advancements raise significant cybersecurity challenges, with the potential to compromise traditional cryptographic algorithms. To counter this risk, PQC ASTrAL aims to implement a cryptographic system resistant to quantum attacks, allowing satellites to perform authentication, digital signatures, and encryption in a secure and sustainable manner over the long term.
In this project, AROBS Polska is the prime contractor responsible for developing the hardware and firmware hosting the cryptographic IP core, as well as the associated software. ResQuant, a company specializing in hardware-implemented cryptographic solutions, is the subcontractor and is responsible for the cryptographic aspects of the project.
“Securing satellite communications is a complex challenge, especially for long-duration devices with limited physical access. Updating software, cryptographic certificates, and key negotiation mechanisms are critical processes for maintaining security, yet vulnerabilities in current systems might allow attacks through forged digital signatures or compromised cryptographic keys. With the rapid advancements in quantum computers, traditional cryptographic standards no longer provide long-term security guarantees. By integrating post-quantum algorithms and implementing security mechanisms in hardware, PQC ASTrAL significantly reduces these risks by separating cryptographic processing from core systems and minimizing vulnerabilities to cyberattacks. This approach ensures a high level of security for satellite communications, anticipating the industry needs for the years to come,” added Michał Szwajewski, CEO AROBS Polska.
The developed system will enable the generation and management of cryptographic keys both on satellites and at mission control stations, encryption and authentication of data, the secure authentication and verification of keys using post-quantum methods standardised in August 2024 by U.S. NIST, as well as the distribution and validation of software packages for satellites. The solution is designed to comply with international security standards and will be compatible with SpaceWire and SpaceFibre, two high-speed aerospace communication protocols that facilitate data transfer between on-board satellite systems and other spacecraft.
“European National Security Agencies are urging the transition of critical infrastructure to post-quantum cryptography. ESA is proud to partner with AROBS Polska to develop a quantum-safe cryptographic system that will protect satellite communication infrastructure from emerging threats, ensuring Europe can safely leverage quantum computing advances and defend against related attacks,” said Laurent Jaffart, ESA’s Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications.
AROBS Polska, headquartered in Gdansk, specializes in developing advanced technologies for quantum and optical communications, data processing and storage, as well as satellite control mechanisms and instruments. The company has extensive experience in developing solutions for ESA and other aerospace organizations, actively contributing to innovative projects for securing space communications.
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About AROBS Polska
AROBS Polska is a Polish company specializing in developing products and technologies for quantum and optical communication, data storage and processing, and control of satellite mechanisms and instruments. The company develops technologies and products for the European Space Agency (ESA) and the commercial space sector. Over the years, the company has been involved in numerous projects in the European aerospace sector, including with representatives of the new space market.
More details about AROBS Polska: https://arobs.pl/
About AROBS Transilvania Software
AROBS Transilvania Software provides software services and solutions in various industries, having approximately 70 partners of the Software Services business line located in Europe and America and more than 11.000 clients of the Software Products business lines from Europe and Asia. AROBS is present in 11 locations in Romania and nine abroad, and over 1.300 AROBS specialists build solutions for the future in embedded – Automotive, Aerospace, Maritime, and Medical – as well as Travel Technology, IoT, Clinical Trials, Fintech, Enterprise Solutions, Cybersecurity, and Intelligent Automation.
More about the AROBS group: www.arobs.com and www.arobsgrup.ro .
About ESA’s Space Systems for Safety and Security (4S) programme
The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space, coordinating the financial and intellectual resources of its Member States to conduct space programmes and activities. Part of Advanced Research in Telecommunications Systems (ARTES), the Space Systems for Safety and Security (4S) strategic programme line develops innovative secure satellite communication systems, integrating them with terrestrial networks where relevant. These systems aim to enhance the safety, resilience, and security of our critical infrastructures and applications, including transportation across land, air, and sea. Additionally, they support governmental operations such as border control and law enforcement.
The 4S initiative aims to support European and national institutions and public bodies in building satellite communications tailored to their needs, while also maintaining Europe’s position at the forefront of the global secure communications market. By fostering growth in this domain, the initiative contributes to creating a safer and more resilient society in Europe and beyond.
Learn more at https://connectivity.esa.int/space-systems-safety-and-security-4s
