With a $1.8 billion acquisition of SkyWater, IonQ moves to vertically integrate quantum computing, accelerating US-based chip production for defence, aerospace and government customers.
US-based IonQ has agreed to acquire semiconductor manufacturer SkyWater Technology for $1.8 billion, eyeing to speed up the development and large-scale production of quantum computing systems for aerospace and defence customers.
The cash-and-stock deal values SkyWater at $35 per share and is expected to close by the end of September 2026, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals. Once completed, the acquisition will give IonQ in-house semiconductor foundry capabilities and position it as a vertically integrated quantum computing company in the United States.
According to a report by the Manufacturing Dive, IonQ said the combination would strengthen its ability to design, manufacture and deliver full-stack quantum solutions, at a time when demand from government and defence agencies is rising.
The company has increasingly focused on federal contracts, setting up IonQ Federal last year to serve US government and allied customers.
The deal comes amid intensifying competition among quantum firms to deepen ties with Washington. Rival D-Wave Quantum recently announced the creation of a dedicated US government business unit, underscoring the strategic importance of quantum technologies for national security.
IonQ further stated that integrating SkyWater’s manufacturing expertise would accelerate progress towards fault-tolerant quantum computers, which are designed to function reliably despite errors. Such systems are viewed as critical for advanced simulations, materials discovery and cryptography-related applications.
SkyWater operates fabrication facilities in Minnesota, Florida and Texas, producing 200-millimetre chips for aerospace, defence, automotive and quantum customers. It is recognised by the US Department of Defense as a trusted foundry.
SkyWater will continue to operate under its existing name as a wholly owned subsidiary, led by chief executive Thomas Sonderman.
IonQ chief executive Niccolo de Masi said the acquisition would significantly shorten development timelines, cutting the period from design completion to initial chip samples from nine months to around two months. He added that IonQ expects to begin testing large-scale quantum-bit chips by 2028.
IonQ also reaffirmed its financial outlook, saying it expects full-year revenue to be close to or above its previous forecast range of $106 million to $110 million. The company has postponed its investor day to later this year while the transaction is finalised.
