The world is in a state of flux: not only has the geopolitical situation changed, but new security threats have also emerged. For example, cyber attacks can paralyse critical infrastructure, and quantum computers are undermining conventional cryptography methods. In short, cyber security is becoming a basic requirement for a resilient society. Space travel is also undergoing major changes: Private companies and start-ups are driving commercialisation and privatisation forward. The focus is no longer on state-dominated space travel, but instead on cheaper, faster and smaller solutions. This New Space market is currently one of the most innovative economic areas. Quantum technologies, especially quantum communication, open up a wide range of possibilities in both defence and space travel. Ultimately, the key issues lie in the security of data transmission – whether on Earth via ground stations or in space via satellites. How can data be transmitted securely without the risk of being intercepted? "

Quantum technology is primarily used in the defence and space sector for security-related applications, such as quantum cryptography and quantum-secure communication," confirms Dr Stephanie Hesse-Ertelt, research manager and deputy head of department at Fraunhofer IOF and member of the Quantum Photonics advisory board.

Defence & Space included in high-tech agenda
The extent to which the defence and space sectors have gained in importance in recent months is reflected, among other things, in Germany’s High-Tech Agenda, published by the federal government in July 2025: aerospace and security & defence have been included as new strategic research areas – two of a total of five research areas in which technology-driven investments are now to follow. Quantum technology is one of the key technologies in this field. "The focus is primarily on application: the aim is to anchor quantum technologies in the economy and in companies," says Hesse-Ertelt. Many developments are running in parallel and can be used in both the space sector and the military sector.

TransEuroOGS

With the launch of the EU research project TransEuroOGS, short for "Trans-European Network of Optical Ground Stations" – which is also funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space – Europe is setting course for a new generation of secure communication: For the first time, a cross-border network of interoperable ground stations in Ireland, Luxembourg, Greece and Germany will be demonstrated, which uses satellites to distribute quantum keys, thereby laying the foundation for a sovereign European communications infrastructure within the framework of the European quantum communications infrastructure EuroQCI. The main objective is to create the conditions for tap-proof information transmission between satellites in space and ground segments on Earth.

Experts from research and industry provide insights
Experts will discuss how quantum technologies are used in defence and space and what research questions are on the agenda at Quantum Photonics, which will take place for the second time in Erfurt on 5 and 6 May 2026. "Various speakers will shed light on the topic from different angles and provide valuable insights," says Hesse-Ertelt, Forum manager for the Defence & Space division at Quantum Photonics. Andreas Müller from Spire Global, for example, explains how the space and data analysis company integrates quantum technologies and what potential he sees for the future. Exciting aspects of the research landscape are presented by Dr Seid Koudia, a scientist at the University of Luxembourg, among others.

Thuringia: A photonics hub with tradition
The location for the Quantum Photonics trade fair could not be better chosen: Thuringia has a long tradition in high technology, especially in the field of optics and photonics. In recent times, the region has also established itself as a key player in quantum technologies – The Fraunhofer IOF, which develops world-leading solutions for quantum communication and encrypted data transmission, and the University of Jena, a leading centre for quantum technologies in Germany, are considered to be key drivers of development. Thuringia is therefore an excellent starting point for advancing quantum technologies in Germany – and an ideal location for the Quantum Photonics user conference.

Parallel event rapid.tech 3D
Rapid.tech 3D, a focus event on the diverse industrial applications of additive manufacturing, will take place parallel to Quantum Photonics from 5 to 7 May 2026 in Exhibition Hall 2. As additive manufacturing is particularly relevant for many optics-based quantum technologies, the integration of both congress, forum and networking areas will create synergies for exhibitors and visitors alike.

An overview of the entire Quantum Photonics conference programme and tickets for the trade conference and exhibition are available online at www.quantum-photonics.de/en.