IonQ, a leading player in quantum computing, has announced its intent to acquire SkyWater Technology, the U.S.-based pure-play semiconductor foundry major, in a cash-and-stock deal valued at approximately $1.8 billion. The agreement, priced at $35 per share, combines $15 in cash and $20 in IonQ stock for each SkyWater share, subject to a collar arrangement.
This landmark transaction will create the industry’s first vertically integrated quantum platform company, merging quantum computing innovation with advanced semiconductor manufacturing capabilities.
The deal, unanimously approved by both companies’ boards, is expected to close by the second or third quarter of 2026, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals.
Accelerating Quantum Computing Roadmap
IonQ said the acquisition will significantly accelerate its roadmap toward fault-tolerant quantum computing. With SkyWater’s trusted, onshore foundry capabilities, IonQ will gain end-to-end control of its quantum hardware supply chain from chip design and packaging to production and deployment.
According to IonQ Chairman and CEO Niccolò de Masi, the integration marks a strategic leap forward:
“This transformational acquisition enables IonQ to materially accelerate its quantum computing roadmap and secure a fully scalable supply chain domestically. By integrating SkyWater’s engineering and fabrication expertise, we’ll advance critical applications in computing, networking, and security—from land and sea to space.”
De Masi emphasized that combining the companies’ strengths will drive the commercialization of fault-tolerant quantum systems and strengthen the U.S. position in quantum technologies across government, defense, and commercial sectors.
Strengthening U.S. Quantum Supply Chain
The combined company will operate a fully domestic quantum hardware pipeline, supporting IonQ Federal’s mission to deliver secure quantum solutions for government and defense applications. With SkyWater’s DMEA Category 1 Trusted Accreditation, IonQ will gain reliable U.S.-based access to design, prototyping, and packaging—all essential for sensitive national security programs.
De Masi added that SkyWater will continue serving as a merchant semiconductor foundry under its existing brand, led by current CEO Thomas Sonderman, who will become head of the SkyWater subsidiary:
“SkyWater is an unrivaled technology partner, and together we will redefine what’s possible across quantum computing, networking, and sensing.”
Synergy of Expertise and Innovation
SkyWater CEO Thomas Sonderman described the merger as “a pivotal moment” for the foundry’s evolution and a major step toward next-generation quantum manufacturing:
“Joining forces with IonQ allows us to accelerate multiple engineering pathways for quantum chips, delivering the precision and scale required for emerging quantum technologies. We remain committed to serving all our foundry customers while adding IonQ’s sensing and networking solutions to our offerings.”
SkyWater will continue to serve its existing commercial, aerospace, and defense clients while expanding its role in the quantum supply chain. Facilities in Minnesota, Florida, and Texas will serve as regional quantum production hubs supporting advanced technologies for artificial intelligence, IoT, and quantum-enabled systems.
A Strategic Move To Become Full-Stack Quantum Computing Leader
The acquisition positions the company as a full-stack quantum computing leader, vertically integrated across R&D, chip fabrication, and application deployment. It also cements IonQ’s role as a trusted technology partner for U.S. government and industry, capable of delivering secure and scalable quantum solutions.
