A hybrid metaheuristic for route optimization in quantum repeater networks

The rapid advancement of quantum networks demands scalable, intelligent routing algorithms capable of navigating constraints unique to quantum communication, such as entanglement fidelity, latency, and limited quantum memory. In this paper, we introduce Quantum-Inspired Black and Turkey Vulture Swarm Optimization (QIBT-VSO) - a novel hybrid metaheuristic that leverages quantum phenomena analogues and biological swarm behavior to tackle the optimal route problem in quantum repeater networks. By modeling black vulture agents as entangled states (enabling fast, collaborative convergence) and turkey vulture agents as superposition states (ensuring broad exploration), QIBT-VSO achieves a dynamic balance between exploration and exploitation. Extensive simulations across multiple network topologies and constraint scenarios demonstrate that QIBT-VSO significantly outperforms existing quantum-inspired algorithms (QIPSO, QDPSO, and QGA), delivering superior convergence speed, higher route fidelity, lower latency, and better resource efficiency. These results establish QIBT-VSO as a scalable and effective solution for next-generation quantum internet routing.