QARC is a specifically targeted proposal that aims at the practical deployment of post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) technologies
into real-world applications and infrastructures. It is particularly focused on the implementation of PQC on specific platforms, such as
embedded constrained devices and Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), including high-speed cryptographic hardware. For
these platforms, where secure implementations of PQC algorithms are still lacking, the consortium will develop novel prototypes and
evaluate them in realistic pilots designed in collaboration with official national cybersecurity authorities (NCSAs). Focus will be
devoted particularly to 1) design and implementation of hybrid schemes guaranteeing security even if legacy or some PQC
components fail, 2) cryptographic agility providing easy transition between algorithms and their families and 3) implementation
security and resistance to tampering and side-channel attacks. Using secure implementations, pilots on eGovernement, Cloud
infrastructures, NCSAs’ services and Open-Source Software (OSS) will be run across the EU to obtain exemplary deployment strategies
and create good practices for the transition from legacy to PQC cryptography.
A major component of QARC is the strong collaboration with national cybersecurity authorities across the EU. This will ensure
coordinated transition strategies and aligned roadmap activities. The project includes a comparative study of how roadmap
implementation takes place in different countries, identifying lessons learned and facilitating the scientific community's support in
these transitions. A particular focus is given to small-to-medium countries with agencies with limited resources.
In addition to technical tasks, the QARC project also includes activities focused on standardization and legislation updates and the
training and awareness-raising activities that are necessary for a successful PQC transition