# AFRL Expands Rome Quantum Network

On October 27, 2026, the Air Force Research Laboratory awarded IonQ $7.5 million for Phase 2 work expanding the quantum network in Rome, New York. The effort adds telecom-wavelength and free-space optical links, network controls, and equipment to connect different quantum systems. The funding is part of the original $21.1 million collaboration announced in January 2025, not additional funding. For defense contractors, the award signals continued AFRL investment in quantum communications and network integration, but it is a follow-on award rather than a new solicitation.

- The work centers on extending the network at the Innovare Advancement Center in Rome; no new solicitation or procurement contact is identified.
- Companies with capabilities in optical hardware, network controls, telecommunications, and integration of heterogeneous quantum systems may find relevant future defense-market opportunities.
- Contractors tracking this area can consider the 2027 Defense R&D Summit on February 4 as an industry event; the signals provide no registration deadline or procurement action associated with it.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Information Technology
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** October 28, 2026

### Government Entities
- Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)

### Vendors
- IonQ (awardee)

### Key Quotes
> Advanced optical hardware and automated control software are what close the gap between laboratory demonstration and field deployment.
> — Jordan Shapiro, President, Quantum Platform at IonQ

### Sources
- [IonQ Expands AFRL Quantum Network With New Award](https://www.executivebiz.com/articles/ionq-afrl-quantum-networking-funding) - ExecutiveBiz
- [IonQ secures follow-on funding from AFRL - Intelligence Community News](https://intelligencecommunitynews.com/ionq-secures-follow-on-funding-from-afrl/) - Intelligence Community News