Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Security
  • /
  • Cyber chiefs unveil roadmap for post-quantum cryptography migration

Security

Cyber chiefs unveil roadmap for post-quantum cryptography migration

New guidance from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) outlines a three-phase timeline for organisations to transition to quantum-resistant encryption methods by 2035.

Above: The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), Nova South, London.
Image by Simona Flamigni / copyright Shutterstock

The UK's cyber security agency has issued new guidance to help the nation prepare for and protect against threats posed by future developments in quantum computing.

The guidance, published by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) – part of GCHQ – emphasises the importance of post-quantum cryptography (PQC), which is a new type of encryption designed to safeguard sensitive information from the future risks posed by quantum computers.

Advertisement
Gulfstream RT

While today’s encryption methods – used to protect everything from banking to secure communications – rely on mathematical problems that current-generation computers struggle to solve, quantum computers have the potential to solve them much faster, making current encryption methods insecure.

Migrating to PQC will help organisations stay ahead of this threat by deploying quantum-resistant algorithms before would-be attackers have the chance to exploit vulnerabilities.  

The new guidance encourages organisations to begin preparing for the transition now to allow for a smoother, more controlled migration that will reduce the risk of rushed implementations and related security gaps. It outlines three phases for migration:

  • To 2028 – identify cryptographic services needing upgrades and build a migration plan.
  • From 2028 to 2031 – execute high-priority upgrades and refine plans as PQC evolves.
  • From 2031 to 2035 – complete migration to PQC for all systems, services and products.
Advertisement
ODU RT

NCSC Chief Technical Officer Ollie Whitehouse said: “Quantum computing is set to revolutionise technology, but it also poses significant risks to current encryption methods.

“Our new guidance on post-quantum cryptography provides a clear roadmap for organisations to safeguard their data against these future threats, helping to ensure that today's confidential information remains secure in years to come.

“As quantum technology advances, upgrading our collective security is not just important – it’s essential.”

For many small and medium-sized businesses and organisations, migration to PQC will be routine, as service and technology providers will deliver it as part of their normal upgrades. However, for some larger organisations, PQC will require planning and significant investment.

By taking proactive steps now, the UK can ensure its digital infrastructure remains robust and secure in the face of quantum advancements.

Advertisement
Cranfield University
Chief Superintendent Fiona Gaffney joins NPAS as COO

Security

Chief Superintendent Fiona Gaffney joins NPAS as COO

15 July 2025

The National Police Air Service (NPAS) has welcomed Chief Superintendent Fiona Gaffney as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), following the retirement of Chief Superintendent Vicki White after 30 years of service to policing.

Lane Electronics to showcase connectivity solutions at DSEI 2025

Defence Security Events

Lane Electronics to showcase connectivity solutions at DSEI 2025

15 July 2025

Franchised distributor of electrical, electronic and optical connectors, Lane Electronics, will be exhibiting at DSEI 2025 (9th–12th September 2025, Excel London) will have the opportunity to explore the company’s latest connector technologies and its UK-based assembly and services.

UK and France agree scheme to address illegal Channel crossings

Security

UK and France agree scheme to address illegal Channel crossings

11 July 2025

The Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, have agreed a scheme to address illegal Channel crossings and dismantle the people smuggling networks.

IFS appoints Kriti Sharma as CEO of Nexus Black

Aerospace Security

IFS appoints Kriti Sharma as CEO of Nexus Black

11 July 2025

IFS has appointed Kriti Sharma as CEO of IFS Nexus Black. This strategic move reinforces IFS’s commitment to industrial AI and fast-tracks the development of agentic AI systems designed for the asset- and service-intensive industries it serves.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Met makes arrest milestone using LFR

Security

Met makes arrest milestone using LFR

10 July 2025

More than 1,000 wanted criminals have now been arrested by the Metropolitan Police Service using Live Facial Recognition (LFR), including paedophiles, rapists and violent robbers.

NCA arrest four for cyber attacks on M&S, Co-op and Harrods

Security

NCA arrest four for cyber attacks on M&S, Co-op and Harrods

10 July 2025

Four people have been arrested in the UK this morning as part of a National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation into cyber attacks targeting M&S, Co-op and Harrods.

Advertisement
DSEI 2025