Miles Jamison 
- The original IonQ-AFRL collaboration announced in January 2025 was valued at $21.1 million
- IonQ previously deployed an onsite quantum computing system in Rome, New York
- The 2027 Defense R&D Summit will explore quantum computing, trusted AI and more
The Air Force Research Laboratory has awarded IonQ $7.5 million in follow-on funding to connect different quantum systems through optical links and telecommunications infrastructure.
The company said Tuesday the Phase 2 award expands a quantum network it delivered in Rome, New York, as part of a collaboration first announced in January 2025.
Advances in quantum technology are part of broader efforts to develop emerging capabilities for national security. The Potomac Officers Club’s 2027 Defense R&D Summit on Feb. 4 will explore quantum computing, advanced defense technologies and research priorities shaping future warfare. Secure your spot to hear from defense and technology leaders.
How Does the Phase 2 Award Fit IonQ’s AFRL Work?
The new funding comes out of the original value of the $21.1 million collaboration and is not an addition to it. IonQ announced the project through Qubitekk to install quantum network infrastructure at the Innovare Advancement Center in Rome in support of AFRL’s Quantum Information Science & Technology Branch.
Phase 1 put the Rome network’s core physical elements in place, while Phase 2 is meant to give AFRL the means to link different kinds of quantum hardware outside laboratory settings.
IonQ has also installed one of its quantum computing systems at AFRL’s Rome site. In April, the company reported linking two independent trapped-ion quantum systems through photonic interconnects under an AFRL project.
What Will Phase 2 Add to the Rome Network?
Hardware changes include network equipment compatible with the O-band, polarization control enhancements and updated quantum network interface cards.
IonQ will also provide a pair of quantum frequency converter modules designed to let heterogeneous quantum and classical hardware interoperate over standard telecom wavelengths. The lab’s on-premises control-plane software will gain automated self-tests, real-time monitoring and failure handling.
A free-space optical system with automatic pointing, acquisition and tracking works to distribute entanglement through secure line-of-sight quantum channels in the C-band.
What Did IonQ Say About Free-Space Optics?
“We are unlocking new domains for quantum networking by going to free space optics,” said Jordan Shapiro, president of quantum platform at IonQ. He added that the company is demonstrating quantum networking over telecom infrastructure and open air on an operating network.
IonQ said the Phase 2 additions support AFRL’s plans for heterogeneous quantum networking. They also offer a deployable model for future multi-node quantum networks, defense communications and enterprise infrastructure.
