SEALSQ to Lead the World’s First Space-Based Quantum Key Distribution Proof-of-Concept with the June 2025 Launch of WISeSat 2.1 Embedding WISeKey Quantum RootKey

Rhea-AI Summary

SEALSQ Corp (NASDAQ: LAES) has announced the upcoming launch of WISeSat 2.1 in June 2025, marking the world's first space-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Proof-of-Concept. The satellite will embed SEALSQ's WISeKey Quantum RootKey, a hardware-based root-of-trust technology designed to protect against quantum decryption attacks.

The technology leverages NIST-recommended post-quantum algorithms (CRYSTALS-Kyber and CRYSTALS-Dilithium) to enable secure authentication, encryption, and data integrity. Key applications include secure command authentication, protection of sensitive data transmission, cryptographic key distribution for critical infrastructure, and trusted onboarding of IoT devices globally.

WISeSat 2.1 aims to strengthen Europe's sovereignty in space-based communications by providing quantum-resistant satellite security infrastructure, particularly crucial amid growing cybersecurity concerns.

Positive

• First-mover advantage in space-based Quantum Key Distribution technology
• Integration of NIST-recommended post-quantum algorithms for enhanced security
• Multiple critical applications including IoT device security and infrastructure protection
• Strategic positioning in the growing space security market

Negative

• Technology remains unproven until successful deployment in June 2025
• Potential high costs associated with satellite launch and infrastructure
• Competitive pressure from other quantum security solutions

Insights

Space Technology and Security Expert

SEALSQ's June 2025 satellite launch with quantum-resistant security represents pioneering advancement in space cybersecurity against emerging quantum threats.

SEALSQ's upcoming WISeSat 2.1 launch represents a significant technological milestone in satellite security. By embedding their Quantum RootKey technology into orbit, the company is positioning itself at the forefront of the post-quantum security market for space infrastructure. This isn't merely an incremental improvement—it's a pioneering implementation of quantum-resistant technology in the rapidly growing satellite sector.

The technical approach is particularly noteworthy. By implementing NIST-recommended algorithms like CRYSTALS-Kyber and CRYSTALS-Dilithium, SEALSQ is deploying cryptographic methods specifically designed to withstand quantum computing attacks. The hardware-based root-of-trust architecture provides protection for the entire security chain, from satellite command authentication to secure transmission of sensitive data.

This development comes at a critical juncture when the satellite industry is booming but facing mounting security challenges. As quantum computing advances, conventional encryption methods used in satellite communications become increasingly vulnerable. The ability to authenticate commands and protect data transmissions using quantum-resistant methods addresses a growing security gap in orbital infrastructure.

The applications outlined—from securing IoT device onboarding to protecting critical infrastructure communications—suggest SEALSQ is targeting multiple high-value markets. The emphasis on sovereign communications infrastructure indicates potential government and defense applications, which typically command premium pricing for security technologies.

For industry watchers, this proof-of-concept deployment signals SEALSQ's technical capability to deliver quantum-resistant security solutions beyond theoretical research. The space-based implementation demonstrates confidence in their technology's readiness for the most demanding operating environments, potentially strengthening their competitive position across terrestrial security markets as well.

Geneva, Switzerland, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SEALSQ Corp (NASDAQ: LAES) ("SEALSQ" or "Company"), a company that focuses on developing and selling Semiconductors, PKI, and Post-Quantum technology hardware and software products, together with WISeKey International Holding Ltd (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY) and WISeSat.Space AG, today announced that on June 2025 will launch the WISeSat 2.1, the first satellite embedding SEALSQ’s WISeKey Quantum RootKey as part of a space-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Proof-of-Concept. This launch marks a breakthrough in protecting satellite communications from quantum-enabled cyberattacks and confirms SEALSQ’s leadership in securing critical space and terrestrial infrastructure using post-quantum technologies.

The WISeKey Quantum RootKey is a hardware-based root-of-trust technology, designed to resist quantum decryption attacks by securing key generation, storage, and management directly on the satellite. This ensures that sensitive cryptographic operations remain isolated, tamper-resistant, and protected against both classical and quantum threats. Leveraging NIST-recommended post-quantum algorithms such as CRYSTALS-Kyber and CRYSTALS-Dilithium, the RootKey enables end-to-end secure authentication, encryption, and data integrity, even under the computational power of future quantum computers.

The deployment of this technology in WISeSat 2.1 enables several critical applications:

• Allows secure command authentication to prevent spoofing or unauthorized control of satellites.
• Protects sensitive data such as Earth observation imagery, defense communications, and scientific measurements during transmission to ground stations.
• Supports the secure distribution of cryptographic keys to protect critical infrastructure, including energy, transportation, and smart city systems.
• Enables trusted onboarding of billions of IoT devices worldwide, even in remote or disconnected regions, by delivering quantum-resistant cryptographic identities from space.

As nation-states and threat actors advance quantum computing capabilities, satellites face increasing risks of key extraction, spoofing, and eavesdropping. SEALSQ’s Quantum RootKey defends against these attacks by securely isolating keys, validating all commands with post-quantum signatures, and ensuring that any interception of quantum key exchanges is immediately detectable. Combined with hardware-based anti-tamper protections, this solution provides a resilient security architecture designed to withstand the next generation of cyber threats.

With these launches, WISeSat is gradually integrating multiple layers of post-quantum and quantum-related technologies designed to harness the unique conditions of space, such as microgravity, to enable breakthroughs that are challenging or impossible to achieve on Earth. Quantum sensing, for instance, is poised to revolutionize positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) systems, which are vital for both space missions and terrestrial critical infrastructure. These advancements could significantly enhance resilience against navigation signal spoofing or jamming attacks.

Additionally, these innovations open the door for future resource exploration and mining in extraterrestrial environments, providing secure communication and navigation systems essential for operating in deep space. Microgravity conditions also enable the manufacturing of advanced materials and the testing of quantum applications that require isolated environments free from terrestrial interference. This could accelerate the development of un-hackable communication networks and help build the technological foundations for a resilient and secure space economy.

The WISeSat 2.1 mission positions Europe and its allies to strengthen their sovereignty in space-based communications at a time of growing geopolitical and cybersecurity tensions. By delivering a fully sovereign, quantum-resistant satellite security infrastructure, SEALSQ demonstrates its capability to secure the most critical layers of global digital trust.

About SEALSQ:
SEALSQ is a leading innovator in Post-Quantum Technology hardware and software solutions. Our technology seamlessly integrates Semiconductors, PKI (Public Key Infrastructure), and Provisioning Services, with a strategic emphasis on developing state-of-the-art Quantum Resistant Cryptography and Semiconductors designed to address the urgent security challenges posed by quantum computing. As quantum computers advance, traditional cryptographic methods like RSA and Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) are increasingly vulnerable.

SEALSQ is pioneering the development of Post-Quantum Semiconductors that provide robust, future-proof protection for sensitive data across a wide range of applications, including Multi-Factor Authentication tokens, Smart Energy, Medical and Healthcare Systems, Defense, IT Network Infrastructure, Automotive, and Industrial Automation and Control Systems. By embedding Post-Quantum Cryptography into our semiconductor solutions, SEALSQ ensures that organizations stay protected against quantum threats. Our products are engineered to safeguard critical systems, enhancing resilience and security across diverse industries.

For more information on our Post-Quantum Semiconductors and security solutions, please visit www.sealsq.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning SEALSQ Corp and its businesses. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding our business strategy, financial performance, results of operations, market data, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will occur in the future, as well as any other statements which are not historical facts. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates which are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that, in our view, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include SEALSQ's ability to continue beneficial transactions with material parties, including a limited number of significant customers; market demand and semiconductor industry conditions; and the risks discussed in SEALSQ's filings with the SEC. Risks and uncertainties are further described in reports filed by SEALSQ with the SEC.

SEALSQ Corp is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SEALSQ Corp. Carlos Moreira Chairman & CEO Tel: +41 22 594 3000 info@sealsq.com

SEALSQ Investor Relations (US) The Equity Group Inc. Lena Cati Tel: +1 212 836-9611 lcati@equityny.com

FAQ

When will SEALSQ (LAES) launch the WISeSat 2.1 satellite with Quantum RootKey technology?

SEALSQ will launch WISeSat 2.1 with the WISeKey Quantum RootKey technology in June 2025.

What is the main purpose of SEALSQ's WISeKey Quantum RootKey in the WISeSat 2.1 satellite?

The WISeKey Quantum RootKey is designed to protect satellite communications from quantum-enabled cyberattacks by securing key generation, storage, and management directly on the satellite.

Which quantum algorithms does SEALSQ's satellite security technology use?

SEALSQ's technology uses NIST-recommended post-quantum algorithms including CRYSTALS-Kyber and CRYSTALS-Dilithium.

What are the key applications of SEALSQ's Quantum RootKey technology?

The technology enables secure command authentication, protects sensitive data transmission, supports cryptographic key distribution for critical infrastructure, and enables trusted onboarding of IoT devices globally.

How does SEALSQ's WISeSat 2.1 mission benefit European space security?

The mission strengthens Europe's sovereignty in space-based communications by providing a fully sovereign, quantum-resistant satellite security infrastructure.