SEALSQ and WISeKey partner with Swiss Armed Forces on satellite communications

SEALSQ Corp and WISeKey International Holding Ltd have reported advancements in their collaboration with the Swiss Armed Forces focused on enhancing secure satellite communication systems and cybersecurity. This partnership, initiated in 2022, aims to strengthen Switzerland’s sovereign space and cybersecurity landscape by integrating secure Internet of Things (IoT) satellites with trusted digital identities and post-quantum cryptographic technologies.

A recent article in WIRED highlighted vulnerabilities within the global Satellite Communications (Satcom) ecosystem, showing that unencrypted data can be intercepted using commercially available equipment. This underscores the critical need for secure communications infrastructure, particularly for military and vital infrastructure systems.

In response, WISeSat.Space, a joint venture between WISeKey and SEALSQ, is developing secure satellite-based communication, reconnaissance, and navigation systems specifically for military applications. The goal is to reduce dependence on foreign providers and bolster national security and operational autonomy. Since formalizing their agreement, the partnership has engaged in research and testing of Small Satellite (SmallSat) capabilities, including LEO Constellation (Low Earth Orbit) Internet of Battlefield Things applications.

The collaboration's Hardware Attestation Service has integrated SEALSQ’s post-quantum semiconductors with WISeKey’s Swiss Root of Trust for robust encryption and authentication techniques suitable for inter-satellite and ground-based communications. This partnership also supports the Swiss Armed Forces’ objective of secure satellite-enabled mobile communications.

Ludovic Monnerat, commander of the new Space Command of the Swiss Armed Forces, highlighted the importance of establishing a partnership with national industries and academia to enhance operational capabilities. Homomorphic Encryption (HE) noted that effective communications require both narrowband and broadband solutions enhanced with robust security protocols.

Carlos Moreira, CEO of SEALSQ, remarked on the evolution of the partnership as a significant effort in establishing a secure space tech ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of merging various technologies in creating Switzerland’s digital autonomy.