Xanadu Quantum Technologies announced a partnership with the Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security (ARLIS), an affiliate of the University of Maryland, to launch a cybersecurity initiative focused on safeguarding emerging quantum computing systems.
The collaboration is part of the Secretary of the Air Force’s Concepts, Development, and Management Office’s SEQCURE (Securing Experimental Quantum Computing Usage in Research Environments) program. The project aims to help establish foundational security standards for quantum computing as the technology moves from research laboratories toward commercial deployment.
The study will explore the feasibility of applying Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) frameworks to quantum computing environments. ZTA is defined under the NIST SP800-207 standard and is based on the principle of “never trust, always verify.” Researchers will evaluate how this cybersecurity model can be adapted to protect quantum infrastructure and computing workflows.
As part of the collaboration, Xanadu will provide ARLIS with detailed insights into its current and future quantum computing systems, including how the company secures its platforms. The research will examine security across six architectural domains: cloud infrastructure, hardware, software, facilities, users, and data.
The initiative also analyzes how different components of the quantum ecosystem interact, including integrated computing resources, custom hardware and embedded software, and the control systems that manage quantum operations.
The project is expected to produce a report providing guidance to U.S. government agencies and the broader technology industry on securing quantum computing infrastructure as the field continues to evolve. The effort represents a step toward designing security frameworks specifically tailored for quantum computing rather than adapting traditional IT security models.
Founded in 2016, Xanadu develops photonic quantum computing hardware and software. The company also leads development of PennyLane, an open-source software library used for quantum computing research and applications.
KEY QUOTES:
“Establishing a trusted, secure operating environment is non-negotiable for the future of quantum computing. Our work with ARLIS is a commitment to not just developing cutting-edge quantum hardware, software, and applications, but also to pioneering the cybersecurity frameworks necessary to ensure these systems are secure from day one.”
Christian Weedbrook, Founder And Chief Executive Officer, Xanadu
“Xanadu is adding substantial value to the SEQCURE program’s mission to understand and protect the quantum ecosystem. By engaging with quantum computing leaders like Xanadu, we gain the crucial, on-the-ground technical data needed to assess the architectural viability of ZTA. The outputs of this study are vital for shaping the guidance that will protect quantum assets deployed across government and industry.”
Paul Lopata, Chief Quantum Scientist, ARLIS
