Groundbreaking National Quantum Network Set to Launch by March 2026
In a groundbreaking development, Iran is set to launch its first national quantum network by the beginning of the next Iranian Calendar year, which falls on March 21, 2026. This significant project, as stated by a representative from the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), marks a pivotal moment in the advancement of quantum technology in the nation.
Quantum technology is emerging as a cornerstone for the evolution of various sectors, including science, industry, safety, and information technology. According to Davood Ranjbar, quoted by Mehr news agency, many countries such as the U.S., China, Russia, and Germany have made substantial investments in this field. Iran is now making strides by prioritizing strategic projects aimed at harnessing the power of quantum technology.
The national project, which aims to design and implement Iran’s first quantum network, is being supported by the Ministry of ICT, the Atomic Energy Organization, and various knowledge-based companies. The initiative began with a comparative analysis of advanced countries’ programs, highlighting Iran’s commitment to advancing in this crucial area.
In July, President Masoud Pezeshkian announced the execution of the ‘national document on quantum science and technology.’ This comprehensive document outlines key objectives, assessment indicators, national strategies, and mechanisms for implementation and monitoring, as reported by Abdolhassan Bahrami, an official from the Vice Presidency for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-based Economy.
The document serves as a vital roadmap for:
- Research advancement
- Technological expansion
- Commercialization of quantum technologies
To facilitate the implementation of this document, a quantum science and technology headquarters will be established. This headquarters will:
- Enhance coordination among relevant organizations
- Develop an implementation roadmap
- Pursue the development of regulations
- Monitor national and global advancements
- Propose amendments to revise the document
The Vice Presidency, in collaboration with other relevant institutions, will initially provide a national plan for the division of labor in the quantum science and technology sector. This will be followed by efforts to support the development of applications, commercialization, and the active participation of knowledge-based companies, ensuring the effective utilization of domestic innovative capacities.
Iran’s Position in Quantum Science and Technology
Recent data from the Web of Science (WoS) indicates a remarkable improvement in Iran’s ranking in quantum science and technology publications. The country’s position has risen from 23 in 2014 to 16 in 2023, making it the leader among Islamic nations across all quantum technology fields.
Over the past decade, Iran achieved its highest ranking in quantum technology at 15, recorded from 2019 to 2021, as reported by IRNA.
Quantum technologies can be classified into three primary categories:
- Quantum Computing: This includes photonic networks, superconducting circuits, spin qubits, neutral (cold) atoms, and trapped ions.
- Quantum Communication: Key components include quantum key distribution, quantum telemetry, quantum repeaters, and sensors.
- Quantum Sensing and Measurement: This encompasses quantum clocks, quantum imaging, and quantum radars.
Among these categories, Iran’s most notable achievement is in quantum remote sensing technology, where it ranks eighth worldwide. Other notable global rankings for Iran include:
- Photonic network technologies: 17
- Superconducting circuits: 18
- Spin qubit: 16
- Neutral (cold) atoms: 21
- Trapped ions: 19
- Quantum key distribution: 24
- Quantum repeater: 26
- Quantum clock: 12
- Quantum imaging: 14
- Quantum radar: 15
In the realm of quantum remote sensing, the following institutions have emerged as leaders:
- Yazd University – 1st place
- University of Tehran – 2nd place
- University of Mohaqeq Ardabili – 3rd place
Yazd University also holds the top position in quantum repeaters. Additionally, Shahed University, University of Tehran, and Imam Khomeini International University are ranked first in superconducting circuits, spin qubits, and nuclear atoms, respectively.
With these advancements, Iran is poised to make significant contributions to the global quantum technology landscape, enhancing its scientific and technological capabilities.
