IonQ announced a definitive agreement to acquire Skyloom Global, a U.S. optical communications leader that delivers secure, high‑speed data links for both Earth and space.
The deal, announced on November 17 2025, will add high‑bandwidth optical link capabilities to IonQ’s quantum platform, expanding its quantum‑secure communications portfolio. Skyloom has delivered nearly 90 optical communications terminals to Space Development Agency missions by 2025, and its technology is expected to boost data throughput by up to 500% and cut latency from many hours to under one hour.
Post‑closing, Skyloom CEO Marc Eisenberg will report to IonQ President of Quantum Infrastructure Frank Backes. The acquisition aligns with IonQ’s strategy to build a full‑stack quantum ecosystem that spans quantum computing, sensing, and secure communications, positioning the company to accelerate its quantum networking roadmap, including the development of a global quantum key distribution network.
While the financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed, the strategic value is clear. By integrating Skyloom’s laser‑based satellite‑to‑satellite and satellite‑to‑ground links, IonQ will be able to distribute entanglement across space and ground networks—a capability central to its vision of a quantum internet.
Management emphasized that the acquisition will strengthen IonQ’s total addressable market and enhance downlink speeds for existing offerings. Niccolò de Masi, Chairman and CEO, noted that Skyloom’s technology expands IonQ’s market reach and supports the company’s goal of delivering quantum‑secure communications to both commercial and government customers.
The acquisition is part of IonQ’s broader strategy of building a comprehensive quantum stack, following earlier purchases of ID Quantique, Qubitekk, Capella Space, and Vector Atomic. The move signals IonQ’s commitment to leading the emerging quantum internet industry and underscores the importance of secure, high‑bandwidth links for future quantum applications.
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