Next-Generation Cybersecurity for Quantum-Safe Satellite Data:Post-Quantum Cryptographic Framework and Advanced Algorithms

Conventional cryptographic mechanisms in satellite communication systems are facing great challenges due to the swift progress of quantum computing. Current methods like RSA are quantum vulnerable and there is a pressing need for quantum secure cybersecurity. In this study, the authors suggest a new cyber security framework for secure satellite data transmission with the help of the post-quantum cryptographic methods and intelligent cyber threat detection mechanisms. The proposed approach consists of the following three components: (1) quantum-resistant key generation and encryption using CRYSTALS-Kyber, (2) authentication of digital signatures using CRYSTALS-Dilithium, and (3) an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) based on a Deep Neural Network (DNN) designed for detecting cyberattacks in real time. An additional Quantum Resistance Score (QRS) model also is integrated to assess security robustness against quantum threats. Experimental results show that Kyber obtains efficient encryption and decryption times of 22 μs and 30 μs, respectively, while the size of the ciphertext is compact, at 1,088 bytes. The DNN model attained 98.7% accuracy, 98.2% precision, 97.9% recall, and 98.0% F1-score. The framework resulted in a 96% QRS, attack detection rates of more than 96.9% and throughput of 95 Mbps. The results show that the framework can securely, efficiently and quantum resistively protect next-generation satellite communication systems.