## 3 Proposed Approach: Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)
### Analysis and Verification of the Proposed Method
#### 3.3.2 Security Analysis: Resistance to Cyber Attacks
QKD protocols, such as BB84, have been rigorously proven to offer unconditional security based on the  
Figure 6: System recovery time post-attack. fundamental laws of quantum mechanics. Specifically, any eavesdropping attempt introduces detectable anomalies due to the no-cloning theorem and the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, ensuring that any interception can be identified and mitigated [19]. In our hybrid approach, QKD is utilized for secure key distribution, while AES-128 is employed for data encryption. AES-128 is a symmetric encryption algorithm widely recognized for its computational efficiency and robustness against known cryptanalytic attacks. The combination of QKD and AES-128 ensures that even if the data encryption keys were to be compromised in the future, the security of the key distribution process remains intact, providing forward secrecy. Furthermore, the integration of Lempel-Ziv-Welch (LZW) compression reduces data redundancy, enhancing the transmission efficiency without compromising security. The use of cryptographic hash functions and digital signatures ensures data integrity and authenticity, preventing forgery and unauthorized modifications. By leveraging the strengths of both quantum and classical cryptographic techniques, the proposed algorithm achieves a high level of security suitable for UAV-based GIS applications. This hybrid approach not only ensures the confidentiality and integrity of transmitted data but also provides resilience against a wide range of cyber-attacks, including data interception, man-in-the-middle attacks, and data forgery (Figure 7). The empirical validation of the proposed hybrid security approach was conducted in a dedicated laboratory environment designed to mimic both controlled and real-world conditions. The test environment featured high-performance servers, dedicated quantum channels (simulated via quantum key generation hardware), and an integrated security stack combining Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) with classical AES-128 encryption. Across 10,000 independent test iterations for each threat vector, as well as 500 multi-vector attack scenarios, the system was rigorously evaluated under varied network loads and stress conditions. In testing the QKD component, 10,000 key exchange sessions were simulated, with adversaries attempting to intercept communications by introducing quantum noise and capturing photon states. The system successfully maintained the integrity of 9800 key exchanges, resulting in a 98% resistance rate against data interception. Notably, the 2% vulnerability was predominantly observed under extreme noise conditions, highlighting  
Figure 7: Effectiveness of the proposed hybrid security algorithm against various cyber threats. The graph compares the effectiveness of different security mechanisms, demonstrating high resilience against data interception, MITM attacks, forgery, and DoS attacks. a potential area for further refinement, particularly for high-risk applications that may encounter similar physical disruptions. The performance of the AES-128 encryption module was similarly impressive. In a series of 10,000 encryption tests, the system withstood a range of cryptanalytic attacks--including side-channel and differential attacks--with 9900 messages remaining secure, yielding a 99% efficacy. The small deviation from a perfect score was attributed to rare, simulated side-channel leakages under highly artificial conditions, suggesting that while AES-128 is robust, continuous improvements in its implementation are warranted to fully complement the quantum protocols. The hybrid system's ability to thwart Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks was evaluated through 10,000 simulated attempts where attackers tried to intercept and alter communication streams. An impressive 9950 attempts were effectively prevented, achieving a 99.5% accuracy rate.