Welcome to this week’s closing edition of quantum computing news. In this issue, we cover Japan’s plans to build a secure quantum network, new cross-border research partnerships, IonQ’s (IONQ) latest move into aerospace, and a major speedup in jet engine testing using hybrid quantum models. Let’s take a look.
TipRanks Black Friday Sale
- Claim 60% off TipRanks Premium for the data-backed insights and research tools you need to invest with confidence.
- Subscribe to TipRanks' Smart Investor Picks and see our data in action through our high-performing model portfolio - now also 60% off
Japan Plans Long-Distance Quantum Link
We begin with Japan, which is building a new 600-kilometer fiber network to support quantum-safe data. The link will run through Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, and Kobe, and aims to go live by March 2027. The country’s main tech group, the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, will manage the work with help from Toshiba (JP:6588), NEC (NIPNF), and other top telecom firms.
This system will use quantum tools to secure data between major hubs. It is meant for banks, health labs, and diplomats who need extra protection. The goal is to defend key systems before future quantum chips can crack today’s codes.
To extend the range past 150 kilometers, the plan will add special repeaters along the route. Japan hopes to close the gap with China and the European Union, which both have larger systems in place. The country also wants to train more engineers outside Tokyo to help scale these tools across its regions.
France, Singapore Sign Quantum Deals
In other developments, France and Singapore signed three new research deals this month, focused on chips, sensors, and code. The work includes new work on energy use and chip design, with funding from both sides. Startups involved include Pasqal and Quobly, both linked to France’s CNRS lab group.
The research will focus on neutral atom chips, silicon spin devices, and new ways to fix quantum errors. Singapore’s National Quantum Office will help connect labs with real-world users in health and finance. Quobly is also now working with a chip lab in Singapore to test how its parts hold up in the field.
These partnerships are meant to turn basic research into real systems that can run fast code, model drugs, or help design new tools. The next round of talks will take place in Singapore in 2026.
IonQ Joins Forces with Drone Maker
We continue our tour with IonQ (IONQ), which has formed a new deal with Heven AeroTech to add quantum tech to long-range drones. The plan is to use quantum tools to build secure drone links, plan missions, and work without GPS. IonQ will also take a board seat at Heven AeroTech as part of the tie-up.
Heven makes hydrogen-powered drones that can fly up to 600 miles. The firm wants to use quantum sensors for tasks like alternate maps and secure data transfer. The move comes as both groups expand into defense and space markets.
This deal builds on IonQ’s push into the aerospace industry. In past years, it won U.S. Air Force research deals and bought firms working on quantum sensors and secure links.
Quantum Speedup for Engine Tests
Next, a new group effort cut the time for jet-engine airflow tests from weeks to under an hour using quantum tools. Xanadu, Rolls-Royce Holdings PLC (RYCEY), and Riverlane collaborated to test airflow utilizing a mix of quantum and classical code.
The team used Xanadu’s PennyLane software, Riverlane’s chip tools, and Rolls-Royce’s engine models. By linking quantum with pre-compute steps, they sped up work that normally stalls on classic gear. In some cases, they cut time by up to 1,000 times.
The test focused on fault-tolerant code and hybrid models. It marks a step toward faster design work for hard systems like engines, chips, and new materials. The project got support from the UK and Canada and may lead to more use of quantum code in high-value sectors.
Florida Moves from Talk to Action on Quantum
Lastly, at this month’s World Strategic Forum in Miami, U.S., global leaders highlighted a new shift: quantum is no longer just theory. Florida is now part of the buildout. The state is forming school networks, setting policy goals, and drawing more long-term investors to back quantum tech in real markets.
Speakers noted that parts of the field are already live. Tools like atomic-clock GPS and early quantum sensors are used in energy grids, space work, and medical scans. Amanda Stein, head of Quantum Catalyzer, said sensors are now ahead of computing and are starting to show value in real use.
Matt Cimaglia from Quantum Coast Capital and other speakers called for better public steps to match the pace of technical growth. This includes clear rules, smart funding, and workforce plans. IonQ’s CEO Nicolo De Masi also spoke at the event. He said we are just now seeing the first real gains and called this moment the start of a bigger change.
Firms like Quantinuum and Mag Corp joined the talks, adding weight to Florida’s role. While most of the industry’s past work came from Silicon Valley, Boston, or D.C., this year’s Forum showed that Florida is now part of the core group moving the field ahead.
We used TipRanks’ Comparison Tool to line up all the tickers mentioned in the piece alongside notable quantum stocks. It’s a quick way to see how they stack up and where the field could be heading.
