Industry remix: Quantum networking - preparing for the post-classical era

Moderator: Frank Ford, Partner, Bain 

Quantum technologies are rapidly moving from research labs into real-world trials, with communications service providers already playing a critical role in national testbeds, quantum-safe security programmes and early quantum networking initiatives. In this Future Skills Arena session, separate hype from reality and explore how CSPs can begin preparing their networks, skills and security models for a post-classical era.

Participants will gain practical insight from operator-led case studies, followed by a peer discussion on the organisational, technical and strategic implications of quantum networking.

You will learn how to:

• Separate hype from reality in quantum communications and networking
• Understand the implications for security, resilience and national infrastructure
• Identify practical steps operators can take today to stay quantum-ready

15:45 - 15:50
Introduction and welcome

• Why quantum is no longer just theoretical for CSPs
• How quantum networking intersects with cybersecurity, sovereignty and critical infrastructure
• Highlighting what participants will take away from the session

15:50 - 16:05
Case study: From experimentation to strategy

• Why quantum networking is becoming part of long-term security and infrastructure strategy, and not just in the innovation labs
• Building a roadmap from research to quantum computing operational readiness
• Key lessons learned so far
• Technical challenges, integration with classical networks, skills and organisational gaps

Rajesh Sharma, General Manager, RIL

16:05 - 16:30
Panel: From theory to operational reality

• How real is the quantum threat to today’s encryption and security models?
• What timelines are CSPs working towards for post-quantum readiness?
• How should operators balance innovation with regulation and national security expectations?
• Where should CSPs invest first: technology, partnerships or skills?
• What are the biggest misconceptions about quantum networking inside organizations?

16:30 - 16:45
Roundtable group exercise: Becoming quantum-ready
Imagine you are part of a CSP leadership team planning for quantum readiness over the next 5–10 years. 

• Which parts of your network or business are most exposed to quantum risk?
• What are your biggest organisational and skills gaps?
• What three actions could you take in the next 12–24 months to prepare?

Groups are invited to capture:

• The top three risks and action points
• What aligns with real-world experience
• What is realistic today vs longer term
• Common challenges across CSPs

16:40
Key takeaways and next steps

• What CSPs can do now to become quantum-ready
• Why quantum networking must be treated as a strategic security and infrastructure capability
• How industry collaboration through TM Forum can accelerate readiness

16:45
Close of session

All timings are provisional and may be subject to change.