Breakthrough in secure communication: Optical Alliance Network successfully tested
The Wireless Optical Alliance — a collaboration involving the Ministry of Defence, Signify, Aircision, FSO Instruments, SMART Photonics, Secura, TNO, and BITS (Brainport Innovation & Technology for Security) — has successfully achieved a crucial milestone in the development of secure wireless optical communication. During a unique test, a fully optical network was established, integrating systems from different parties — including LiFi and Free Space Optics — to work together seamlessly. This marks a major breakthrough in secure wireless communication.
This technology enables ultra-fast, “invisible” connections that are resistant to eavesdropping and disruption, providing a secure alternative to traditional radio and satellite communications. It offers applications for both the Ministry of Defence and civilian sectors, such as logistics, mobility, and healthcare.
Unique optical network successfully completed
During the test, several innovative systems were linked together. Aircision provided the wireless connection between TNO’s ground station and Signify’s operational container, where the communication signal was successfully received via LiFi. In a full setup, the laser beam would be transmitted from a very fast-moving satellite, then precisely tracked and captured by TNO’s optical ground station.
All components, including the telescope, worked together optimally. Signify’s LiFi technology played a key role: it uses light to transmit data, ensuring a 100% shielded connection without radio interference — crucial in scenarios where radio connections are unreliable or undesirable.
Menno Smeelen, Ministry of Defence:
"What we have achieved together in such a short time is truly remarkable. Thanks to the commitment of all partners and the support of BITS, a strong collaboration emerged right from the start. Everyone contributed their own strengths, and that made all the difference. I am proud of the trust, energy, and results we have already achieved together."
Mark Gunther, Signify:
"We are at the beginning of a revolution in wireless communication. This successful collaboration demonstrates that the Netherlands is leading the way in building secure digital infrastructure."
Luis Oivaira, Aircision:
"Through complementary technologies, we have proven that communication security can be enhanced while simultaneously enabling high speeds and rapid deployability."
Philip Weimar, TNO:
"Establishing and maintaining a connection with a very fast-moving satellite is impressive in itself. If we can further extend this capability with partners’ additional systems to relay the signal, it would mark a tremendous advancement."
Next step: connections to vehicles, ships and drones
The next phase is now within reach: directly connecting satellites with defence vehicles, naval vessels, and drones. A key pillar of this project is the deliberate decision to develop the technology and supply chain largely within the Netherlands. This reduces reliance on foreign networks and ensures that critical communication infrastructure remains entirely under Dutch control.
The Wireless Optical Alliance remains committed to ensuring that the Netherlands stays at the forefront of secure wireless optical communication development. In the coming months, further tests will be conducted, including additional demonstrations within the Ministry of Defence. NATO is also closely monitoring these developments, highlighting the international relevance and potential of this technology.
About BITS
BITS (Brainport Innovation & Technology for Security) plays a key role in this consortium, acting as a bridge between high-tech companies and the Ministry of Defence. Together with the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Province of North Brabant, Brainport Development, and the Brabant Development Agency (BOM), BITS strengthens cooperation between government and industry to enhance the security and resilience of the Netherlands.