# Air Force Awards Quantum Research Contract to Rigetti Computing

Rigetti Computing has formalized a letter of intent with the U.S. government to advance quantum computing technologies, focusing on fault-tolerant quantum computing and cryptographic resilience. The company received a **$5.48 million** contract award from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) on April 28, 2025, to develop its Alternating-Bias Assisted Annealing (ABAA) chip-fabrication technology aimed at reducing defects in superconducting qubits. This positions Rigetti as a key federal partner in quantum research with potential for expanded future contracts supporting DoD quantum initiatives.

- The AFOSR contract highlights growing federal investment in quantum computing research, signaling increased procurement opportunities in advanced quantum hardware development.
- Procurement professionals should note the focus on fault-tolerant quantum computing and cryptographic resilience as priority technology areas for upcoming solicitations.
- Quantum technology vendors and contractors can leverage this development to align proposals with DoD research priorities and emerging quantum hardware standards.
- Organizations involved in quantum computing should consider partnerships or collaborations to enhance competitiveness for future DoD quantum research contracts.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Information Technology
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Services
**Published:** May 21, 2026

### Government Entities
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR)
- United States Department of Defense (DoD)

### Vendors
- Rigetti Computing (prime contractor)
- Quanta (commercial partner)

### Sources
- [Rigetti signs letter of intent with US government for quantum research](https://cryptobriefing.com/rigetti-us-government-quantum-research) - Crypto Briefing