Greece and Cyprus complete first quantum-secure satellite connection

On Wednesday, September 2, 2026, telecommunications providers Sparkle and Hellas Sat announced the successful establishment of the first quantum-secure satellite data connection between Greece and Cyprus. This achievement marks a significant milestone in safeguarding international communications against sophisticated cyber threats.

The connection links Sparkle’s data center in Metamorfosi, Athens, with Hellas Sat’s infrastructure in Cyprus. The data travels approximately 72,000 kilometers via the satellite system, covering the uplink and downlink paths. This project utilizes Sparkle’s Quantum Safe Interconnect (QSI) technology, specifically designed to counter the 'store now, decrypt later' threat, where sensitive data is intercepted and saved to be decrypted by future high-powered quantum computers. The trial follows previous successful testing of secure IPsec connections between two data centers within Greece.

By implementing this quantum protection, the companies aim to provide advanced data security services for critical and remote areas. The collaboration effectively fortifies the telecommunications link between the two nations, ensuring that the transmitted information remains secure against emerging computational vulnerabilities.