Arthur McMiler 
- Lockheed Martin has opened a hub for its quantum research and prototyping work
- The center follows the model of Lockheed’s AI Center
- Workforce programs will train employees and fund internal quantum projects
Lockheed Martin has launched the Lockheed Martin Quantum Innovation Center, or QuIC. The company said the center brings quantum research, development and prototyping work into a single hub that will support future national security missions.
What Is the Lockheed Martin Quantum Innovation Center?
The QuIC will serve as a center of excellence, with research and development capabilities across multiple quantum applications. The center builds on more than 15 years of company work in quantum navigation, communications and sensing, as well as advanced quantum computing. In November, Lockheed also signed a memorandum of understanding with PsiQuantum to develop quantum algorithms for aerospace and defense applications.
“The QuIC represents our ongoing commitment to develop and integrate the best of American technology in quantum to help ensure an advantage for our nation and allies in deterring future threats,” said Sarah Hiza, senior vice president of technology and innovation at Lockheed Martin.
Hiza added that the QuIC is modeled on the Lockheed Martin AI Center, or LAIC, which has developed artificial intelligence for national security for two decades.
How Will the QuIC Integrate Outside Quantum Technology?
The center will also bring in quantum technologies developed outside Lockheed, including those from startups backed by Lockheed Martin Ventures. In April, the corporate venture arm expanded to $1 billion, up from $400 million. It recently joined a pre-seed round for Diffraqtion, which develops quantum cameras for space domain awareness.
Lockheed’s quantum work also extends overseas. Earlier in September, the company and IBM opened a quantum hub in Switzerland with ETH Zurich under an offset agreement with armasuisse, the Swiss defense procurement agency. Lockheed has also committed $100 million in venture funding to UK and European investments in quantum research and other emerging technologies.
How Is Lockheed Martin Building Its Quantum Workforce?
The QuIC will also be a hub for quantum workforce development, helping teams move quantum technology into the company’s next-generation systems more quickly. Lockheed’s Quantum Talent Pipeline program trains current employees in quantum skills, and its Quantum Sprouts initiative funds in-house R&D projects.
