A Hybrid Trusted/Untrusted Relay-Based Quantum Key Distribution Network Architecture Proposal for Military Communications Networks

Key Points

• To propose an efficient and secure operational framework for quantum key distribution networks in military communications.
• Developed a hybrid trusted/untrusted relay-based operational framework.
• Applied trusted node QKD in secure wired segments.
• Implemented measurement device independent QKD in high-risk wireless and satellite segments.
• Introduced an AI-SDN driven scenario for dynamic switching between QKD methods based on real-time link assessment.
• Achieved a balance between security and transmission efficiency.
• Demonstrated improved resilience and rapid rerouting in military communication networks.
• Provided sustainable operational guidelines for quantum key distribution in multi-domain environments.