The context
StandICT.eu Fellow Dr Richard Pitwon leads the creation of IEC TC86 WG11, driving global standards for optical components critical to quantum tech. Quantum technologies are rapidly revolutionising how we communicate, compute, and secure data, shaping the digital backbone of tomorrow’s society. Yet one critical gap has long remained unaddressed: standardisation of fibre optics and photonic components vital for enabling scalable quantum networks.
Thanks to the StandICT.eu Fellowship, Dr Richard Pitwon has taken a major step forward in closing this gap, successfully establishing IEC TC86 WG11 – Quantum Optical Interconnect, a new international working group focused on creating standards for the optical components that power quantum communication, sensing, and computing. This achievement not only marks a key technical milestone but also enhances Europe’s strategic autonomy and competitiveness in the global quantum race.
The challenges
In 2024, the creation of ISO/IEC JTC3 on Quantum Technologies was a milestone in aligning international efforts in quantum standardisation. But JTC3 explicitly excluded fibre optics, a core enabler of secure and scalable quantum communication, from its scope. Without international standards for these components, European companies, particularly SMEs, face increased fragmentation, lack of interoperability, and dependence on non-European providers, undermining Europe's leadership potential in the quantum field.
How standardisation activities help face the challenges
Supported by StandICT.eu, Dr Pitwon worked with national standardisation bodies across Europe and key global stakeholders to propose a solution. The result?
- In November 2024, IEC TC86 WG11 – Quantum Optical Interconnect was officially approved
- Dr Pitwon was appointed Convenor.
- The group’s first major deliverable, IEC TR 63568-1, reached final approval stage.
The working group will focus on developing international standards for optical fibres, cables, components, and devices used in quantum technologies, including quantum networks, metrology, sensing, imaging, and computing.
The Benefits
- Established: IEC TC86 WG11 – Quantum Optical Interconnect
- Convenor: Dr Richard Pitwon
- First Deliverable: IEC TR 63568-1 – now at final approval stage
- Impact: Bridges a major standardisation gap, boosts SME participation, strengthens EU leadership
- Vision: Secure, scalable, and interoperable quantum infrastructure powered by global standards
Future plans
Beyond formal committee work, Dr Pitwon has worked closely with SMEs to ensure their voices are heard in shaping standards. His outreach has empowered smaller players to participate in shaping the global quantum landscape, turning Europe’s innovation into international leadership. Looking ahead, a strong base of experts from across Europe is being mobilised to expand WG11’s activities and shape a foundational standards portfolio that can influence global developments in quantum optical interconnects.