Thales Advances Quantum Ready 5G Security with Remote Post Quantum Cryptography Upgrade Technology

Thales Advances Quantum Ready 5G Security with Remote Post Quantum Cryptography Upgrade Technology

(IN BRIEF) Thales has demonstrated a new quantum-safe security capability that allows existing 5G SIM and eSIM cards to be remotely upgraded with post-quantum cryptographic protection. The breakthrough shows that telecom operators can enhance network security without replacing devices or disrupting service. The approach uses crypto-agile technology to enable flexible updates as security standards evolve, helping protect mobile communications and critical infrastructure from future quantum computing threats. The demonstration confirms that 5G networks can gradually transition toward quantum-resistant security while preserving existing investments and maintaining reliable connectivity.

(PRESS RELEASE) LA DÉFENSE, 2-Mar-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Thales has achieved a major technological milestone by demonstrating a new approach that enables 5G networks to transition toward quantum-safe security. The breakthrough shows that existing SIM and eSIM cards already deployed in operational networks can be remotely upgraded with advanced cryptographic protection designed to withstand future quantum computing threats.

The demonstration was carried out in collaboration with a leading mobile network operator and confirmed that post-quantum cryptographic protection can be introduced without service interruptions or any impact on the user experience. The achievement highlights the potential for telecommunications providers to strengthen network security through flexible cryptographic upgrades rather than replacing hardware in the field.

Quantum computing is expected to eventually challenge current encryption techniques, potentially exposing mobile communications, personal information, and critical infrastructure to new forms of cyber risk. As 5G networks continue to support essential services such as connected vehicles, industrial systems, emergency communications, and consumer applications, ensuring long-term security has become a priority for network operators.

A key difficulty for the industry is the scale of deployed devices. Replacing millions of SIM cards or connected devices whenever security standards evolve would be costly and impractical. Thales’ approach addresses this challenge by enabling remote installation of post-quantum cryptographic algorithms directly onto existing SIM and eSIM cards. This process enhances security while preserving existing services and data, allowing upgrades to take place seamlessly in the background.

The technology relies on crypto-agile architecture, which allows network operators to modify cryptographic protections as new threats emerge or standards evolve. Through this capability, operators can update security mechanisms remotely without changing devices or interrupting connectivity.

The successful demonstration shows that mobile networks can gradually transition toward quantum-resistant security while maintaining operational continuity. It also illustrates how operators can protect long-term infrastructure investments while preparing for future developments in quantum computing.

Thales has invested heavily in post-quantum cryptography research and development and contributes to international standardization efforts, including initiatives led by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology. The company develops quantum-resistant technologies intended to provide long-term protection for digital communications systems.

Eva Rudin, Vice President for Mobile Connectivity Solutions at Thales, said the demonstration shows that quantum-ready network security is already achievable. She noted that the ability to remotely upgrade deployed SIM and eSIM cards enables operators to strengthen protection for customers and critical services while maintaining uninterrupted connectivity. Thales plans to continue working with industry partners to support the deployment of quantum-safe security across commercial and private 5G networks worldwide.

About Thales

Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies in advanced for the Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.

The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies.

Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.

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SOURCE: Thales