IonQ Delivers Advanced Quantum Networking System to U.S. Air Force Research Lab
IonQ, a pioneering leader in quantum computing and networking, has officially delivered and commissioned an advanced quantum networking system optimized for research and development at the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) in Rome, New York. This next-generation system, designed for cutting-edge research, marks a major milestone in the collaboration between IonQ and the AFRL to enhance national security and drive innovation in quantum technologies.
A Strategic Partnership for Quantum Advancement
The newly installed quantum system is based on trapped ion technology, which is known for its remarkable precision and scalability in quantum computing. This on-premises technology has been carefully designed to meet the needs of AFRL’s ambitious research goals, particularly in the realms of quantum networking methodologies and algorithms.
IonQ’s leadership in quantum computing was evident as Niccolo de Masi, President and CEO of IonQ, emphasized the significance of the partnership between the company and AFRL. “Today’s system commissioning is the culmination of a collaborative partnership between AFRL and IonQ to deliver enterprise-grade quantum capabilities today, not 10 years from now,” said de Masi. He added, “We’re excited to continue our strong partnership with AFRL and the U.S. government as they prioritize quantum technologies and drive significant investment and research aimed at ensuring the country’s leadership in secure quantum networking and communications.”
This partnership represents not only a technological achievement but also an ongoing commitment to the strategic growth of quantum computing in the United States. As the U.S. government increasingly invests in quantum technology, both the AFRL and IonQ are working together to maintain national leadership in this rapidly evolving sector.
Addressing National Security Challenges with Quantum Technology
The U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory is committed to advancing quantum computing and networking technologies to tackle the most pressing national security challenges. Michael Hayduk, Deputy Director of the AFRL Information Directorate, highlighted the potential of quantum computing to revolutionize sectors such as materials science, optimization, and secure communications. He stated, “We are excited to explore the potential of quantum computing to address complex national security challenges and drive breakthroughs in fields like materials science, and optimization. By working together with industry leaders like IonQ, we aim to leverage quantum computing to enhance our nation’s competitiveness, security, and prosperity.”
This commitment is crucial in ensuring the U.S. remains at the forefront of quantum innovation, particularly in an era where quantum technologies will play a central role in securing critical communications and advancing research across industries.
IonQ Launches Pioneering Quantum System at U.S. Air Force Research Lab
Government Support: A Catalyst for Quantum Innovation
The successful implementation of this quantum networking system at AFRL has been significantly bolstered by strong governmental support. U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer played an instrumental role in securing funding and legislation to position Rome Labs as the U.S. Air Force and Space Force Quantum Information Science Research Center. He proudly noted, “I proudly championed efforts to secure Rome Labs as the U.S. Air Force and Space Force Quantum Information Science Research Center, and to deliver tens of millions of dollars in federal investment to help fund state-of-the-art quantum laboratories at Rome Labs.”
Schumer emphasized the importance of this quantum networking technology in enhancing the U.S.’s national security, international competitiveness, and technological innovation. “This next-generation quantum networking technology will help Rome Labs and the Griffiss Institute supercharge quantum R&D, catalyze new partnerships with academia and industry, bolster American national security and international competitiveness, and further establish Upstate NY as a major hub for innovation,” Schumer said. His leadership is a testament to the critical role that lawmakers and public-private partnerships play in accelerating technological progress in quantum computing.
Legislative Support for Quantum Superiority
Another key advocate for quantum advancements is Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, who has tirelessly worked to ensure the U.S. maintains its technological advantage in the quantum field. Stefanik introduced the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act, which aims to boost the Department of Defense’s quantum efforts. She highlighted how the AFRL-Rome facility is now home to a fully operational quantum networking system. “Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL-Rome) is now home to a functioning quantum networking system that will help the U.S. become the first nation to reach quantum advantage,” Stefanik remarked.
Stefanik also secured hundreds of millions of dollars in funding for AFRL-Rome through the FY25 Defense Appropriations Act, ensuring the continuous progress of quantum technologies. Her dedication to advancing quantum computing underscores the bipartisan support for enhancing the nation’s technological edge and ensuring quantum computing’s role in U.S. national security.
IonQ’s Growing Footprint in Quantum Computing
IonQ’s achievement at AFRL builds on its impressive track record of advancing quantum technologies. Following its first contract with AFRL in 2022, IonQ has secured multiple additional contracts, including one in 2023, another in late 2024, and most recently, one in December 2024. These contracts, valued at over $94.4 million, are designed to enhance the scalability, interoperability, and deployability of quantum computers and networks across the U.S.
This delivery to AFRL also complements IonQ’s expanding global presence. Just recently, the company delivered its IonQ Forte Enterprise to its first European Innovation Center, located in partnership with QuantumBasel in Arlesheim, Switzerland. This expansion highlights IonQ’s growing role in shaping the future of quantum computing, with data centers now in Washington D.C., Seattle, and Basel, Switzerland.
A Bright Future for Quantum Networking
As the quantum computing industry continues to mature, the collaboration between IonQ and AFRL signals a promising future for both national defense and broader technological innovation. The deployment of the dedicated quantum system at AFRL sets the stage for groundbreaking advancements in quantum networking, which will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications in security, communications, and beyond.
The ongoing partnership between IonQ, AFRL, and the U.S. government reflects a shared commitment to maintaining technological leadership in the global race for quantum computing supremacy. With quantum technologies poised to disrupt multiple industries, the advancements made at AFRL, coupled with IonQ’s expertise, are key to ensuring that the U.S. remains at the forefront of this emerging and transformative field.
As this partnership evolves, the opportunities for enhancing national security and accelerating scientific research will continue to grow, creating new possibilities for the future of quantum technologies.
To learn more about IonQ and its latest system news and business developments, visit https://ionq.com/.
About IonQ
IonQ, Inc. is a leader in the quantum computing and networking industries, delivering high-performance systems aimed at solving the world’s largest and most complex commercial and research use cases. IonQ’s current generation quantum computers, IonQ Forte and IonQ Forte Enterprise, are the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems, boasting 36 algorithmic qubits. The company’s innovative technology and rapid growth were recognized in Newsweek’s 2025 Excellence Index 1000, Forbes’ 2025 Most Successful Mid-Cap Companies list, and Built In’s 2025 100 Best Midsize Places to Work in Washington DC and Seattle, respectively. Available through all major cloud providers, IonQ is making quantum computing more accessible and impactful than ever before. Learn more at IonQ.com.
