Iran to Establish First Quantum Communication and Atomic Clock Labs

WANA (Oct 27) – As global competition intensifies to achieve a “quantum internet,” Iran has announced plans to develop key national infrastructure in quantum science. The country will soon launch its first Quantum Communication Laboratory and Atomic Clock Laboratory, marking a major step toward advancing quantum technologies in computing, communication, and sensing.

According to Dr. Hossein Afshin, Deputy Vice President for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-Based Economy, the initiative is being jointly developed with the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ICT). He said the project’s aim is to strengthen Iran’s capabilities in quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing.

“Developing laboratory infrastructure is crucial for separating true science from pseudoscience and accelerating innovation,” Afshin stated. He added that the Quantum Communication Lab, to be established in cooperation with the ICT Research Institute, is expected to become operational within a year once the memorandum of understanding between the two sides is finalized.

The Quantum Communication Lab will serve as a national reference center to accelerate research and development in ultra-secure communication systems based on quantum entanglement and superposition—principles that make eavesdropping virtually impossible.

Afshin also revealed plans to create a series of laboratories focused on quantum sensing technologies, beginning with the country’s first Atomic Clock Laboratory. “The atomic clock project, developed with one of Iran’s leading universities, will soon be completed,” he said, noting that details about the partner institution will be announced later.

He emphasized that the government’s Scientific and Technological Vice Presidency will fund 55% of the investment in the Quantum Communication Lab, highlighting Iran’s commitment to catching up with global advancements in quantum research.

While Iran has made early strides in quantum research, it still faces a long road toward industrialization and practical deployment. Officials say these new laboratories will lay the groundwork for Iran to participate in the emerging global quantum technology race.

Atomic Clock. Social media/ WANA News Agency