As the vulnerabilities of existing public-key cryptography systems are being highlighted by the advancement of quantum computing technology, Terra Quantum and Apex.AI have proposed a method for applying Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) to enhance cloud communication security for robots, autonomous driving, and defense systems. It is expected to attract interest from industries with long-term operating systems, as it allows for the transition to quantum-resistant security while maintaining the existing application structure.

Terra Quantum and Apex.AI announced on the 27th that they have successfully implemented PQC, standardized by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), for communication between Apex.AI's robot software operating environment and cloud-based control systems.

This implementation was achieved by applying quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms without altering the existing communication workflow and distributed software architecture.

Software-defined vehicles (SDVs), autonomous systems, and connected robots currently being introduced are often designed to operate over several decades.

These systems rely on communication with cloud services for monitoring, diagnosis, and software updates, but there are growing concerns that existing public-key cryptography systems could be rendered ineffective if cryptographically significant quantum computers emerge.

Both companies stated that this implementation presents a practical path for enterprises to begin transitioning to quantum-resistant security systems at this stage.

This solution is a configuration that combines Terra Quantum's PQC technology with Apex.AI's Apex.OS.

Apex.OS provides a software foundation for software-defined robots and intelligent machines, and plays a role in enabling secure communication between the edge and the cloud.

Both companies explained that since the approach involves only replacing existing encryption technology, there is no need to redesign application logic or communication architecture.

Application fields include robotics, autonomous mobility, industrial automation, logistics, aerospace, defense, and critical infrastructure.

In particular, NATO's multi-domain operations (MuIt was stated that, based on the concept of Ti-Domain Operations, it can be applied to environments requiring interoperable communication infrastructure across multiple operational domains, such as ground, air, sea, cyber, and space.

“This implementation demonstrates that NIST-standardized post-quantum cryptography is ready to protect today’s cloud-connected systems,” said Markus Pflitsch, CEO of Terra Quantum. “It presents a practical path to achieving quantum tolerance without redesigning existing software architectures.”

Jan Becker, CEO of ApexAI, said, “For companies developing platforms that will operate for years or even decades, post-quantum security preparation is a challenge that must be considered from the early stages of architecture and product planning.”