Ji-Ning Zhang | Searcharxiv

arXiv2025

Experimental demonstration of drone-based quantum key distribution

Quantum state transferring has been demonstrated using drones via entanglement distribution. Here we demonstrate the first drone-based quantum task, for quantum key distribution (QKD). Compact and polarization-maintaining acquisition, pointing, and tracking system and QKD modules are developed and loaded on a home-made octocopter, within takeoff weight of 30 kg. Real-time QKD is performed over 200 m distance with 8.48 kHz average secret key rate, using polarization-coded decoy-state BB84 protocol. With the capability of secret key distribution using a drone, wireless communication can be expected with enhanced security in the quantum approach, between mobile nodes towards a network.

quant-ph↗

arXiv2019

Drone-based all-weather entanglement distribution

The quantum satellite is a cornerstone towards practical free-space quantum network and overcomes the photon loss over large distance. However, challenges still exist including real-time all-location coverage and multi-node construction, which may be complemented by the diversity of modern drones. Here we demonstrate the first drone-based entanglement distribution at all-weather conditions over 200 meters (test field limited), and the Clauser-Horne-Shimony-Holt S-parameter exceeds 2.49, within 35 kg take-off weight. With symmetric transmitter and receiver beam apertures and single-mode-fiber-coupling technology, such progress is ready for future quantum network with multi-node expansion. This network can be further integrated in picture-drone sizes for plug-and-play local-area coverage, or loaded onto high-altitude drones for wide-area coverage, which adds flexibility while connecting to the existing satellites and ground fiber-based quantum network.

quant-ph↗