Singtel has announced the launch of Southeast Asia’s first Hybrid Quantum-Safe Network (QSN), which combines Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) to enhance data security for enterprises. This new approach is designed to extend protection beyond central data centers to branch offices, remote sites, cloud environments, and international operations.
The hybrid QSN architecture uses QKD for distributing encryption keys between shared parties, while PQC introduces encryption algorithms intended to resist attacks from quantum computers. By integrating both methods, Singtel aims to provide a scalable and flexible solution against potential quantum threats.
Mr Ng Tian Chong, Chief Executive Officer, Singtel Singapore, stated, “Quantum computing represents one of the greatest opportunities of this decade – from curing diseases to predicting climate change and boosting productivity – but it also presents one of its biggest risks. It could break today’s encryption standards, the very foundation of digital trust in our connected world. As a critical infrastructure services provider, Singtel has been helping enterprises anticipate, defend and manage emerging threats so they can innovate and scale securely. Our Hybrid Quantum-Safe Network gives enterprises a practical and scalable way to protect their most sensitive data while preparing for what’s next.”
He continued, “By delivering the region’s most flexible and extensible quantum-safe model, we’re strengthening Singapore’s position as a leader in digital resilience and building digital trust. We encourage businesses exploring ways to safeguard and future-proof their operations in the digital economy to reach out to us.”
The solution leverages technology from ID Quantique (IDQ) for QKD and key management, as well as Palo Alto Networks’ PQC solution. This combination allows secure key distribution across traditional networks, including locations without QKD hardware.
Singtel has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Palo Alto Networks, enabling the company to offer Hybrid QSN as a managed security service.
Mr Simon Green, President, Asia-Pacific and Japan, Palo Alto Networks said, “The threat of quantum computing is very real, and our customers are looking for a practical way to help future-proof their networks against this emerging risk. By bringing together our advanced quantum security solutions and Singtel’s hybrid quantum-safe network, we’re providing a scalable and flexible way for enterprises to extend critical protection from their core data centres to their remote and international locations. This collaboration gives organisations a powerful, software-based solution to defend their data today and well into the quantum era.”
The hybrid architecture applies QKD where the highest level of protection is required, such as high-bandwidth or mission-critical connections, while PQC-based software distribution offers flexibility for securing remote and cross-border sites. The platform integrates both types of keys using Palo Alto Networks’ firewalls.
Singtel’s QSN also aims to overcome distance limitations of fibre-based QKD by extending quantum-safe protection internationally, supporting multinational corporations and government agencies in securing sensitive information wherever they operate.
Since launching its QSN with IDQ in 2023, Singtel has expanded its capabilities through partnerships with industry leaders such as Palo Alto Networks and Fortinet.
For more information, visit Singtel Quantum-Safe Network.
