IonQ announced a $21.1 million contract with the U.S. Air Force Research Lab (AFRL) to advance secure quantum networking technologies. The project, facilitated through Qubitekk, Inc., will focus on developing quantum network infrastructure at the Innovare Advancement Center in Rome, New York, supporting AFRL’s efforts in quantum information science. The initiative aims to explore the use of entangled qubits for secure communications, precise timing synchronization, and distributed quantum computing.
A key focus will be the creation of free-space optical links between ground stations and uncrewed aerial systems (UASs), enhancing secure communications for defense applications. The collaboration also includes expanding compatibility with existing telecommunications infrastructure and developing high-performance quantum access points to drive device interoperability.
• $21.1 Million Contract: New investment in quantum networking technologies for the U.S. Air Force.
• Secure Communications Focus: Development of free-space optical links for secure, high-precision data transfer between ground stations and UASs.
• Expanded Infrastructure Compatibility: Integration with existing telecom hardware for greater interoperability.
• Qubitekk Integration: Builds on IonQ’s Qubitekk acquisition to strengthen quantum network development.
• Broader AFRL Collaboration: Follows $54.5 million in contracts awarded in September 2024 for additional quantum network advancements.
Peter Chapman, CEO of IonQ, emphasized the significance of the project: “We’re thrilled to deepen our collaboration with AFRL, leveraging Qubitekk’s expertise to drive secure quantum advancements for the U.S. Air Force.”
