Last Updated: 7 January 2025
IonQ, a leader in quantum computing and networking, has finalized its acquisition of Qubitekk, a prominent quantum networking company.
This acquisition integrates Qubitekk’s team, technology, and patents into IonQ’s operations, strengthening its position in a rapidly evolving field. With this move, IonQ is positioning itself to address the growing demand for secure and scalable quantum networks.
Quantum networks have the potential to revolutionize industries like defense, finance, and energy. But what makes them so significant? At their core, these networks use entangled qubits to enable highly secure communication between quantum nodes. This technology also supports other applications like precise timing synchronization, advanced quantum sensing, and distributed quantum computing.
The importance of quantum networks is not just theoretical. In 2022, Qubitekk launched the EPB Quantum Network in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the first commercially available quantum network in the U.S. This achievement demonstrated the practical benefits of quantum networking, setting the stage for broader adoption in various sectors.
By acquiring Qubitekk, IonQ is taking a critical step toward making quantum networks a foundational part of tomorrow’s infrastructure.
This move isn’t just about expanding IonQ’s technological capabilities. It’s about combining Qubitekk’s expertise in quantum networking with IonQ’s vision for scalable quantum systems.
Together, they aim to accelerate the development of the quantum internet—an interconnected network of quantum computers that could reshape global communication and computation.
IonQ’s approach to quantum networking relies on photonic interconnects to link multiple quantum computers, creating powerful clusters. This architecture could redefine how quantum computing is used across industries, making it more accessible and impactful.
"The acquisition of Qubitekk is a key step in IonQ’s journey to lead quantum networking into the future. Qubitekk’s innovative work in quantum networking aligns perfectly with our vision of creating scalable quantum systems that transform industries. By combining our strengths, we are not just expanding IonQ’s capabilities in critical areas like defense and cybersecurity, we expect to accelerate the development of quantum networks, the backbone of tomorrow’s quantum internet."
Jordan Shapiro, Head of Corporate Development and VP of Financial Planning & Analysis at IonQ.
The benefits of this acquisition go beyond technology. IonQ now has access to Qubitekk’s customer base and its 118 U.S. and international patents, expanding IonQ’s total patent portfolio to over 600. This intellectual property strengthens IonQ’s ability to innovate in critical areas, including cybersecurity and defense.
"Joining forces with IonQ allows us to further our collective mission of making the quantum-enabled internet a near-term reality. We are excited to become part of IonQ, bringing our quantum networking expertise to IonQ's groundbreaking work in quantum computing."
Stan Ellis, Co-Founder and CEO of Qubitekk
The combined teams bring deep expertise to an area where innovation has real-world consequences. From secure communications to advanced computing, this partnership has the potential to push boundaries and set new standards.
This acquisition adds to IonQ’s recent momentum. In September, the company landed a $54.5 million U.S. Air Force contract—the largest quantum deal of 2024—to develop quantum networking technology. IonQ has also advanced remote ion-ion entanglement, a key step toward connecting quantum processors, and is building a system for blind quantum computing with ARLIS, enabling secure data processing.
On top of that, IonQ launched its first European quantum computer, Forte Enterprise, with #AQ36 capabilities, at uptownBasel. This milestone supports breakthroughs in logistics, finance, and AI while strengthening Europe’s quantum tech ecosystem through a partnership with QuantumBasel.
