The essence of the news.
Joint Venture underway: SEALSQ Corp (NASDAQ: LAES), a Swiss company specializing in post-quantum technology, signed a non-binding letter of intent with Ajyal Holding to create the joint venture KUAENTUM in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Project goal: To develop a Post-Quantum Semiconductor Customization Center (PQSPC) and a hub for the production of communication satellites resistant to quantum attacks. The estimated investment is around 100 million dollars.
What KUAENTUM aims to achieve.
Customization and testing of post-quantum semiconductors: Injection of digital IDs and integrated updates in chips at the wafer and integrated circuit (IC) level.
Production of satellites with quantum-resistant encryption: Direct incorporation of encryption modules into satellites, ensuring a complete security chain from the chip to space.
Regional hub for innovation in semiconductors and space: The center will serve as a technological beacon for the Middle East, aligning with digital sovereignty and national security objectives.
Boost in R&D with AI: The project envisions innovation programs supported by artificial intelligence, aimed at the development of adaptive semiconductors and autonomous satellites.
Strategic context and relevance.
Advantages of Abu Dhabi: The emirate offers an advanced digital ecosystem, strong government support, emerging talents in AI, cybersecurity, and aerospace, as well as infrastructure and sovereign funds that facilitate technological development.
SEALSQ's global strategy: This initiative is part of its global expansion strategy through public-private partnerships; they have similar projects underway in Europe and Asia. They will employ RISC-V architectures with post-quantum cryptography, ensuring compliance with standards such as Common Criteria and NIST guidelines for quantum cryptography.
Security in the post-quantum era: The idea of merging secure chips with satellite infrastructure represents a comprehensive approach to future threats arising from quantum computing power.