What happens when a new technology 
                                (satellite QKD) is deployed in 
                                an environment is lacking a fit-for-
                                purpose regulatory framework: like 
                                outer space?
                                                                          2
        1. QUANTUM 
                      KEY 
      DISTRIBUTION 
        FROM SMALL 
         SATELLITES 
     (Satellite QKD)
                                                                          3
                                                      • QKD is a method for key exchange not 
                                                        message exchange
                                                      • Advantage to cyber defence over cyber 
          Quantum Key                                   offence 
          Distribution                                • Key interception by third-party will always 
          gives code                                    be detected
          makers an 
          advantage over                              • QKD will work better as a space-based 
          code breakers                                 technology rather than a ground-based 
                                                        technology
                                                      • Space-based QKD has already been 
                                                        demonstrated by China – satellite QKD is 
                                                        an inevitability                          4
    2. THE GAPS 
           IN SPACE 
       REGULATIO
                          N
                                                                          5
                                            The Outer Space Treaty – does not ban the 
                                            militarisation of space. Has not 
                                            prevented the use of kinetic weapons 
                                            (such as ASAT) 
           Examples 
              of space                      The Registration Convention – is not being 
          regulation                        implemented effectively. Has seen delays 
                                            of registration of over a year due to 
             vs issues                      flexibility.
                                            Debris Mitigation Guidelines – mechanisms 
                                            largely voluntary
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