IonQ Receives $7.5 Million AFRL Follow-On for Quantum Networking

College Park, 27 October 2026. IonQ (NYSE: IONQ) has received $7.5 million in follow-on funding from the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). The Phase 2 contract expands on the first-generation quantum network IonQ previously delivered in Rome, New York.

The Phase 2 work adds optical, hardware and software layers intended to turn the deployment into an operational, interoperable research platform. Phase 1 established the core physical network foundation, according to the release.

The release states that the full-stack enhancements allow connectivity of distinct quantum systems and route quantum communication over standard telecommunications infrastructure and open air. Phase 2 is meant to connect different types of quantum hardware across non-laboratory environments.

"Advanced optical hardware and automated control software are what close the gap between laboratory demonstration and field deployment," said Jordan Shapiro, IonQ President, Quantum Platform.

IonQ originally announced the $21.1 million collaboration in January 2025. The release states this award was contemplated within the originally announced amount and is not a supplemental award.

The company said the Phase 2 work builds on prior AFRL work, including a photonics interconnect milestone in April 2026 and the deployment of an onsite IonQ quantum computing system at AFRL in Rome, New York.

Source: IonQ news