Higher Speed Optical Access Networks and future end-to-end Packet Optical Network Architecture in 6G

The main goal of this opportunity is to advance the development of high-speed optical access networks and future end-to-end packet optical network architectures that are compatible with 6G technologies. It aims to deliver very high capacity and energy-efficient data transport for wideband services and applications. Key focus areas include integrating advanced passive optical networks and photonics with wireless systems, using AI to create greener and more automated optical networks, and improving security and trustworthiness. The opportunity also covers optical sensing, quantum networking over fiber, and the development of adaptive protocols for multiband optical transmission. This grant is open to organizations in the EU, Associated Countries, OECD, and Mercosur regions.

• Must address at least one of the following core technical domains:

  • High-speed optical access networks (e.g., PON, DWDM)

  • End-to-end packet optical network architectures

  • Integration of optical and wireless systems, including optical sensing

  • AI-enhanced optical networks, including automation and resource efficiency

  • Secure and resilient architectures, possibly including quantum networking

• Project scope must integrate into the overall 6G architecture, including:

  • Compatibility with xhaul and core networks

  • Support for ultra-high capacity and wideband use cases (e.g., > 100 Gbps throughput)

  • Energy-efficient optical transport strategies

• Project must plan for low to medium TRL work:

  • Include a clear roadmap toward demonstration (PoC) of an end-to-end optical architecture during or by the end of the SNS work programme

  • Demonstrate how optical architectures will scale for real-world applications (e.g., industrial, urban, NTN)

• Expected to leverage existing EU initiatives:

  • Components and systems (e.g., photonic chips, integrated modules) must ideally be sourced from Photonics 21, Chips JU, or similar EU-backed programmes

  • Proposals should clarify how these components will be integrated in the optical-6G use case

• AI & automation components must be clearly justified, including:

  • AI algorithms for optical network configuration, monitoring, energy optimization

  • Potential use of AI in optical sensing or predictive fault detection

• Explicit sustainability orientation required, covering:

  • Impact on energy consumption of 6G systems (quantified where possible)

  • Network design choices that promote long-term sustainability and reduced operational emissions

Example projects:

• A university-led consortium developing an AI-enhanced optical access network prototype for urban 6G deployment.
• A research institute collaborating with industry partners to test quantum networking over fiber for secure communication.
• A cross-border project designing protocols for adaptive multiband optical transmission to improve network resilience and capacity.

• Personnel costs
• Subcontracting
• Travel and subsistence
• Equipment (depreciation or rental)
• Consumables and materials
• Dissemination and communication
• Access to research infrastructure
• IPR and certification
• Audit costs
• Indirect costs (25% flat rate)
• Internally invoiced services

• Budget for this Call: 8,000,000€ 
• Number of Grants attributed: 1
• Budget per grant: 8,000,000€

• Applicants must be legal entities established in EU Member States, Associated Countries, OECD, or Mercosur countries.
• Entities from Russia, Belarus, or non-government-controlled territories of Ukraine are not eligible.
• Entities considered high-risk suppliers of mobile network equipment, or controlled by such suppliers, are not eligible.
• Entities controlled by non-eligible countries may participate only if they provide guarantees ensuring no negative impact on EU interests and security, subject to assessment.
• Public bodies, research organizations, and higher education institutions must submit a gender equality plan.
• Gender dimensions must be addressed in research proposals where relevant.
• Intellectual property and results must remain within eligible countries, with sensitive information restricted from non-eligible entities.
• National security clearance may be required for staff involved in the project.