Rigetti Computing Secures $5.8M US Air Force Contract to Develop Quantum Networking Technology

Rigetti Computing has secured a $5.8 million contract from the US Air Force Research Laboratory to develop superconducting quantum networking technology. The company will partner with QphoX to create quantum networks that can connect multiple quantum processors through microwave signals. The contract aims to solve the technical challenge of converting microwave signals to optical signals for long-distance fiber optic transmission. Rigetti Computing shares surged over 30% in US trade.

Rigetti Computing has made significant strides in the quantum computing sector, securing a $5.8 million contract from the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to develop superconducting quantum networking technology. The contract, announced on September 12, 2025, will see the company collaborate with Dutch startup QphoX to create quantum networks that can connect multiple quantum processors through microwave signals. The primary objective of this project is to address the technical challenge of converting microwave signals to optical signals for long-distance fiber optic transmission.

The contract, which spans three years, aims to deliver systems that provide entanglement between superconducting qubits and optical photons, a critical aspect of quantum networking. Dr. Subodh Kulkarni, CEO of Rigetti, expressed his pleasure with the support from AFRL, stating, "We are very pleased that AFRL is supporting this technology, which is important for the US to maintain its global leadership in quantum information science."

The news of the contract has had a positive impact on Rigetti's stock, with shares surging over 30% in US trade. This follows a trend where quantum computing companies are increasingly relying on government contracts and research organizations to generate revenue, given the current limitations of gate-model quantum computers in commercial applications Rigetti Computing jumps on $5.8 million contract from the Air Force Research Laboratory to advance quantum networking^[1].

Rigetti's success comes on the heels of similar developments in the sector. Peer company IonQ recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the US Department of Energy to advance the development and deployment of quantum technologies in space. This agreement also highlights the growing interest and investment in quantum computing by both government and private entities .

The collaboration with QphoX and the AFRL contract underscore Rigetti's commitment to pushing the boundaries of quantum networking technology. As the company continues to innovate and secure strategic partnerships, it remains a key player to watch in the burgeoning quantum computing industry.