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From Earth to Orbit:A Quantum-Secure Authentication Key-Establishment Mechanism to Defend Satellite Communications in the Quantum Age

Year: 2026

Type: conference-paper

Abstract: The inherent broadcast characteristics of satellite communication systems make them vulnerable to interception and manipulation threats. Stringent Authentication and KeyEstablishment (AKE) mechanisms play a vital role in securing satellite communication links by verifying legitimate participants and establishing a secret session for protected communication. Nevertheless, the existing AKE mechanisms based on classical cryptographic methods are not sufficient to guarantee the security of these systems in the forthcoming post-quantum era. Recognizing these flaws, we propose a quantum-secure robust AKE mechanism that fortifies these communications systems against emerging cyber and quantum threats. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to integrate NIST-approved quantum-safe cryptography primitives, coupled with a hardware fingerprinting-based key generation mechanism.

Source: Explore Bristol Research

Authors: Shamshad, Salman, Abbas, Waqas Bin, Belguith, Sana, Berthoud, Lucy

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Authentication Protocols Security

Subfield: Computer Networks and Communications

Field: Computer Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funder: National Institute of Standards and Technology

OpenAlex ID: W7126966322

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