Award underscores Rome Lab’s vital role in protecting America’s technological edge.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 18, 2025
ROME, NY – The Central New York Defense Alliance (CNYDA) celebrates the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory’s $10.8 million award to PsiQuantum to continue advancing quantum chip technology. The contract reflects the Air Force’s growing investment in next-generation quantum systems as well as Rome Lab’s vital role in positioning the United States at the forefront of global quantum innovation. PsiQuantum, based in Palo Alto, California, is a global leader in photonic-based quantum computing.
“This award confirms what we’ve long known: Rome Lab is one of the premier quantum research centers in the nation,” said Nick Stewart, Executive Director of the CNY Defense Alliance. “PsiQuantum’s deepening partnership with AFRL Rome will accelerate America’s lead in the quantum race and bolster Central New York’s reputation as a critical node in the national security innovation ecosystem.”
The CNY Defense Alliance has been a leading advocate for robust federal investment in emerging dual-use technologies, including AI and quantum computing, and welcomes this announcement as a strong endorsement of the region’s strategic value to the Department of Defense.
“This is about protecting the technological edge of the U.S. military, while also strengthening the economic backbone of our region,” Stewart added. “We’re proud to see the Air Force investing in platforms that will define the next generation of national security and we’re especially proud that they continue to do it right here in Central New York. We also thank our elected officials, including Senator Charles Schumer and Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, for their continued advocacy and support of these vital projects and programs.”
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About the CNY Defense Alliance:
The Central New York Defense Alliance is a coalition of public, private, and academic stakeholders advancing defense missions and innovation in the Mohawk Valley, with a particular focus on strengthening Rome Lab’s role in national defense.
The Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate (AFRL/RI), also known as Rome Lab, located in Rome, NY, is the Department of the Air Force’s premier research center for Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) and cyber technologies. With a mission to lead the discovery, development, and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for air, space, and cyberspace, AFRL Rome plays a critical role in advancing U.S. national security. The lab partners with government, industry, and academia to accelerate innovation in areas such as quantum computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and secure communications, positioning Rome Lab as a cornerstone of American defense innovation.