Cryptographic Transition Planning for Agricultural and Energy Critical Infrastructure in the Post-Quantum Era

Hridoy Roy

Anshu Sharma, Vipin Kumar Chaudhary, Chirag Sharma +1 more

Winifred C. Ayogu

The emergence of quantum computing presents unprecedented challenges to the cryptographic foundations protecting critical infrastructure systems worldwide. This study examines the integration of federated threat intelligence frameworks with quantum-resistant cryptographic transition strategies specifically tailored for agricultural and energy sectors. Through a comprehensive analysis of current security paradigms and quantum threat timelines, we propose a multi-sector approach that enables collaborative threat detection while maintaining operational independence. Our research synthesizes cryptographic agility principles with sector-specific operational constraints, developing a roadmap for pre-quantum to post-quantum cryptographic migration. The findings reveal that coordinated transition planning across interconnected critical infrastructure sectors significantly enhances resilience against both contemporary cyber threats and emerging quantum-enabled attacks. We present a phased implementation framework that addresses technical, organizational, and regulatory dimensions of cryptographic modernization while preserving the unique operational requirements of agricultural and energy systems. This work contributes to the nascent field of quantum-safe critical infrastructure protection by bridging theoretical cryptographic research with practical implementation considerations for resource-constrained operational environments.

Shrabanti Kundu, Utpal Ghosh

Dorothy Gail Rey

This paper explores the transition from theoretical quantum-risk planning to the practical implementation of post-quantum cryptography in the homeland security sector. It focuses on space infrastructure, critical infrastructure protection, and national resilience, assessing threats posed by the "harvest now, decrypt later" approach, post-quantum cryptographic standards, and vulnerabilities in positioning, navigation, and timing systems. The analysis also addresses governance challenges, procurement requirements, and satellite security, proposing resilience-oriented strategies for the protection of national infrastructure. Key recommendations include adopting hybrid cryptographic solutions, automating the detection of vulnerable systems, continuous attestation, cryptographic agility in orbit, and establishing a Space-Quantum Reserve to bolster long-term resilience against quantum threats.

David E. Ott, Dennis Moreau, Manish Gaur