PsiQuantum advances to final phase of DARPA’s utility-scale quantum computing program

PsiQuantum has reached a significant milestone in its mission to develop the world’s first utility-scale quantum computing system. The company has been selected to enter the final phase of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) Underexplored Systems for Utility-Scale Quantum Computing (US2QC) program. This advancement follows PsiQuantum’s successful completion of the research and development viability phase, where its innovative approach to quantum computing technology was rigorously evaluated.

The US2QC program is part of DARPA’s broader Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI), which aims to identify and accelerate promising quantum computing technologies. In this final validation phase, DARPA will assess PsiQuantum’s system architecture, component performance, and real-world application potential, positioning the company at the forefront of the global quantum race.

What is the significance of PsiQuantum’s partnership with DARPA?

PsiQuantum’s selection for the final phase of the US2QC program highlights the strategic importance of its work in advancing quantum computing technology. DARPA, known for pioneering transformative technologies with military and commercial applications, has played a crucial role in the development of the internet, GPS, and stealth technology. Its endorsement signals strong confidence in PsiQuantum’s approach to building a scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computer capable of addressing complex computational challenges beyond the reach of classical systems.

Professor Jeremy O’Brien, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of PsiQuantum, emphasised the urgency of scaling quantum technologies to meet the demands of critical industries. According to O’Brien, maintaining momentum is essential for unlocking the transformative potential of quantum systems. He stressed the need for sustained focus and resource allocation to accelerate progress, particularly as global competition in quantum computing intensifies.

How is PsiQuantum’s quantum computing technology being evaluated?

Over the past year, DARPA conducted an exhaustive evaluation of PsiQuantum’s photonic-based quantum computing technology. This process involved over 50 experts from leading government agencies, national laboratories, and defence contractors. The assessment focused on key performance metrics such as scalability, system reliability, and readiness for deployment in practical applications.

PsiQuantum’s hardware systems are currently undergoing rigorous testing, with the largest quantum cryogenic module installed at the U.S. Department of Energy’s SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in Menlo Park, California. This facility plays a vital role in evaluating end-to-end system performance, ensuring that PsiQuantum’s technology meets the stringent requirements for utility-scale quantum computing.

Simultaneously, PsiQuantum is expanding operations at its new 120,000-square-foot manufacturing and testing facility in Milpitas, California. Here, the company is networking multiple quantum cabinets to enhance system integration and performance. This facility is designed to support the rapid scaling of PsiQuantum’s technology, leveraging advanced semiconductor manufacturing processes and cryogenic infrastructure.

Why is utility-scale quantum computing important for the future?

Utility-scale quantum computing represents a transformative leap in computational power, enabling solutions to problems that are currently unsolvable with classical computers. PsiQuantum’s mission is to build a system capable of operating with around one million qubits—a critical threshold for achieving quantum error correction and fault tolerance.

A fault-tolerant quantum computer can maintain operational stability even when individual qubits experience errors, making it suitable for real-world applications across various industries. This capability is essential for advancing scientific research, optimising complex systems, and solving problems in fields such as cryptography, materials science, pharmaceuticals, and financial modelling.

PsiQuantum’s photonic approach offers significant advantages for scalability. By leveraging existing semiconductor fabrication techniques and cryogenic technologies, the company aims to accelerate the development of quantum systems that can be deployed at scale, meeting the growing demand for advanced computational capabilities.

What role does government support play in quantum computing development?

Government support is critical in advancing quantum computing technology, particularly given the high costs and technical complexities involved. PsiQuantum’s collaboration with DARPA and other federal agencies provides access to funding, expertise, and infrastructure necessary for breakthrough innovations.

In July 2024, the State of Illinois announced a $500 million initiative to establish the Illinois Quantum & Microelectronics Park (IQMP), with PsiQuantum and DARPA as anchor tenants. This partnership reflects a strategic investment in quantum infrastructure, aimed at positioning the United States as a global leader in quantum technologies.

PsiQuantum will build the first U.S.-based utility-scale quantum computing system at the IQMP, alongside DARPA’s Quantum Proving Ground. The Illinois state budget for fiscal year 2025 includes $200 million for the development of a cryogenic plant to support PsiQuantum’s operations, with additional funding allocated for research and infrastructure development.

PsiQuantum’s agreement with the State of Illinois, Cook County, and the City of Chicago includes incentives exceeding $500 million over 30 years. This comprehensive support package is designed to accelerate the construction and commissioning of the company’s Quantum Computing Operations Center, a 300,000-square-foot facility with room for future expansion.

How will PsiQuantum’s quantum computing technology impact industries?

The potential applications of fault-tolerant quantum computers are vast, with the power to revolutionise industries ranging from healthcare to finance. In Illinois alone, critical sectors such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, energy, materials science, and manufacturing are expected to benefit significantly from quantum advancements.

For example, quantum computing could accelerate drug discovery by simulating complex molecular interactions, optimise supply chain logistics through advanced algorithms, and enhance cybersecurity with next-generation encryption methods. Additionally, quantum models can improve climate predictions, energy grid management, and financial risk assessments, providing a competitive edge for businesses and governments alike.

PsiQuantum’s global expansion reflects the growing demand for quantum capabilities. The company plans to break ground on Quantum Data Centers in Brisbane, Australia, and Chicago, Illinois, further cementing its role as a leader in the quantum ecosystem.

What’s next for PsiQuantum and DARPA’s quantum program?

As PsiQuantum enters the final phase of the US2QC program, the focus will shift to validating its quantum computing technology in real-world environments. DARPA will continue to monitor progress closely, evaluating system performance, economic utility, and the feasibility of scaling to meet national security and commercial needs.

PsiQuantum’s journey underscores the critical role of public-private partnerships in advancing frontier technologies. With DARPA’s support and strategic investments from state and federal governments, PsiQuantum is poised to deliver on its ambitious goal: to build and deploy the world’s first utility-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer.