Every cryptographic operation begins with randomness. Classical pseudo-random number generators derive entropy from deterministic processes that can, in principle, be predicted or manipulated. Quantum random number generators exploit fundamental quantum mechanical indeterminacy to produce provably unpredictable output. This session examines the physics, hardware implementations, certification requirements, and practical integration paths for deploying QRNG across defence cryptographic infrastructure.
QRNG devices generate randomness from quantum physical processes: vacuum state fluctuations, single-photon path decisions, or amplified spontaneous emission noise. Unlike classical entropy sources that rely on environmental sampling (mouse movements, thermal noise, interrupt timing), quantum sources are fundamentally non-deterministic. No amount of information about the device's prior state allows prediction of the next output bit.
For defence organisations, QRNG addresses a specific vulnerability in the cryptographic stack. Key generation for AES-256, ML-KEM, and ML-DSA requires high-quality entropy. Nonce generation for TLS 1.3, IPsec IKEv2, and MACsec must be unpredictable to prevent replay and chosen-nonce attacks. This session covers the physics behind each QRNG approach, chip-scale hardware from vendors such as ID Quantique and Quside, certification under AIS 31 and NIST SP 800-90B, integration with hardware security modules, and deployment considerations for constrained defence devices including tactical radios and UAV controllers.
Deep Dive Session structure with scheduled breaks. Content is configurable to your organisation's technical level and operational environment.
| # | Session | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Entropy Sources and Quantum Randomness Why classical PRNGs are insufficient for defence cryptography |
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| 2 | QRNG Architectures and Hardware From laboratory devices to chip-scale integration |
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| Break, after 55 min | ||
| 3 | Defence Applications and Integration Where QRNG adds genuine security value |
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| 4 | Discussion and Next Steps Evaluating QRNG for your environment |
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Workshops are designed and delivered by QSECDEF in collaboration with sector specialists. All facilitators have direct experience in both quantum technologies and defence systems.
Workshop design and delivery
QSECDEF brings world-leading expertise in post-quantum cryptography, quantum computing strategy, and defence-grade security assessment. Our advisory membership spans 600+ organisations and 1,200+ professionals working at the intersection of quantum technologies and critical infrastructure security.
Domain expertise and operational validation
Defence workshops are co-delivered with sector specialists who bring direct operational experience in defence organisations. This ensures workshop content is grounded in regulatory, operational, and technical realities specific to the sector.
Sessions are configured around your organisation's technical level, operational environment, and regulatory jurisdiction. Get in touch to discuss requirements and schedule a date.
Contact UsQuantum technologies are evolving quickly and new developments emerge regularly. This page was last updated on 15/03/2026. For the most current information about course content and suitability for your organisation, we recommend contacting us directly.
