AFRL opens Extreme Computing centre for quantum computing research

The U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has opened its Extreme Computing centre, as a component of national defence research – with a focus on quantum computing.

Described as a state-of-the-art facility, it is located in the organisation’s Information Directorate in Rome, New York – one of the country’s premier military research facilities.

The stated aim is to help provide the “most cutting-edge Quantum Computing technology available to protect the nation and deliver game-changing technologies to the warfighter”.

Laboratories

According to the AFRL, the Extreme Computing facility is focused on basic research for national defense applications. It features two laboratories for basic research in quantum computing, networking and security, and two neuromorphic computing laboratories for basic research in machine learning models approximating human neurocognition.

After the opening, the AFRL also announced it has secured $44 million in new federal funding, in the Senate Defense Appropriations Bill. This includes funding to further develop quantum computing programmes. For example, $4 million for developing a “next-generation ion trap computer”, and $10 million for a Distributed Quantum Networking Testbed and Quantum Cloud Computing Environment.

Extreme Computing

“This Extreme Computing Facility marks a new era in the accelerated development, integration and deployment of advanced computing technologies for the Department of the Air Force,” said Michael Hayduk, deputy director, Information Directorate. “The state-of-the-art laboratories for trusted computing, machine learning, neuromorphic and nanocomputing and quantum networking will advance our competitive edge in extreme computing.”

Pictured above are the AFRL’s Information Directorate with U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.

“The Rome Lab and powerhouse workforce of the Mohawk Valley are going to be the ones to take us to the next frontier and ensure America leads the globe in the quantum computing super race,” Schumer said.

“The Extreme Computing Facility opening today is only the beginning. I am proud to announce that I have secured over $44 million in the Senate Defense Appropriations Bill to supercharge these efforts, bolster our national security, and make sure Rome Lab is America’s leader in quantum computing and Unmanned Aircraft System or UAS technology.”

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