A Quantum Network Vision for the Netherlands
A new white paper, led by QDNL and TNO in consultation with the broader quantum ecosystem, outlines the strategic, economic, and sovereign advantages of establishing quantum networks and an ecosystem of companies building them in the Netherlands.
Quantum networking is a strategic capability. It will amplify the power of future quantum computers and may provide additional protection against quantum-enabled cyber attacks. The Netherlands already has the ingredients to lead in quantum networking, including top-tier research programmes, successful early quantum network deployments, a strong startup ecosystem, an industrial capability in optical satellite communication, and worldwide academic and technical leadership.
Now, our challenge is to translate that research into a viable market opportunity.
Addressing both the opportunities and challenges of quantum network development, the white paper sets out a 10-year strategy for building a user-centric quantum network that strengthens technological sovereignty and positions the Netherlands as a leading contributor to Europe’s future quantum communications infrastructure.
Building a strong quantum network
By 2036, the Netherlands aims to operate user-centric quantum networks that deliver tangible operational advantages to Dutch and European users. This goal requires the cooperation of the entire ecosystem, including researchers, startups, companies in end-user industries, and policymakers.
The strategy focuses on three enabling conditions to stimulate the creation and commercialisation of a Dutch-operated quantum network: capital, usage and uptake, and stronger connections between supply and demand. These conditions must be paired with technical priorities, including entanglement-based networking and quantum key distribution. Supporting infrastructure, such as a national access provider and an Open Access Facility, will also be essential to make these technologies accessible, scalable, and commercially relevant.
“If we wait for the market to mature to the point where quantum networks are needed in practice, we will lose our position as leading architects of the quantum internet and sink into the role of passive users,” comments Wojciech Kozlowski, co-editor of the white paper, referencing the vision set forth in the paper.
“The building blocks of a strong research network and thriving quantum ecosystem are already here in the Netherlands. It is imperative that we take the early initiative to develop a sovereign quantum network and begin the commercial cycle.”
Wojciech was recently appointed Quantum Communications (CAT-2) Lead at QDNL, and he is responsible for advancing the Netherlands' quantum networking capabilities.
A collective call to action
The white paper specifically addresses Dutch policymakers with three calls to action:
Consolidate Dutch leadership by accelerating quantum internet development through the EU quantum strategy (QI²). This includes engaging patient capital and building pilot and open-access facilities in the country.
Empower adoption of near-term applications to bridge the commercial gap. Create the user base necessary to stimulate a market for quantum key distribution and related services, focusing on the right infrastructure and alleviating non-technical barriers such as standardisation and trust.
Incentivise terrestrial / space telecom collaboration to establish a national quantum access provider. Establish a national quantum access provider, serving as the Dutch EuroQCI node, with infrastructure architected for immediate quantum key distribution service and seamless upgrade to entanglement networks.
“We couldn’t dream of a better context for this ambition: world-class academics and innovation leaders at home and a collective European determination to lead on quantum technologies. Now let’s deliver and build the global champions of quantum networking."
The white paper emphasises that the Netherlands has an opportunity to transition its research leadership into an economic advantage. Acting on that opportunity will require coordination and collaboration across government, industry and academic institutions over the coming decade.
Download and read the full white paper below:
