IonQ (NYSE: IONQ) has completed its acquisition of Skyloom Global Corp., closing a deal announced in November 2025.
The transaction adds lightwave-optics and secure communications technology to IonQ’s expanding quantum networking plans. Company leaders said on Wednesday that the move strengthens efforts to connect future quantum computers through ultra-secure links.
IonQ’s chairman and chief executive described the deal as a practical step toward building large-scale quantum networks. He said Skyloom’s communications expertise fits directly into IonQ’s long-term technical roadmap.
Additionally, Skyloom brings experience serving government, aerospace, and defense customers that already demand secure connectivity. The acquired company develops free-space optical terminals that transmit data using tightly focused beams of light.
These systems deliver high bandwidth, low latency, and resilience in environments where traditional networks struggle. Consequently, IonQ expects faster progress in quantum networking and quantum key distribution research. The company also plans to use Skyloom’s engineering talent to accelerate future quantum-enabled communications infrastructure.
Skyloom’s chief executive and management team will remain in place to run the business. Meanwhile, they will continue supporting existing customers while exploring new commercial and government opportunities.
IonQ said the integration should expand its ability to offer complete, end-to-end quantum networking solutions. Further, the company aims to combine computing hardware with secure communications rather than selling isolated technologies. This approach targets national security, enterprise data protection, and advanced scientific research needs.
Additionally, IonQ has pursued a series of acquisitions to assemble a full quantum technology stack. Those deals include Capella Space, Lightsynq, a super-majority stake in ID Quantique, and Vector Atomic.
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IonQ draws mixed commentary from analysts
Collectively, the purchases cover quantum computing, networking, sensing, and security capabilities. Consequently, IonQ believes it now controls all critical layers needed for distributed quantum entanglement. Executives said this structure allows tighter integration between hardware, software, and communications systems.
Furthermore, the company expects the combined platform to support future government and industry partnerships. The Skyloom transaction positions IonQ to compete as quantum technologies move from laboratories toward real-world deployment.
IonQ draws mixed but increasingly prominent commentary from major Wall Street analysts and market researchers.
Jefferies analysts have published one of the Street’s more bullish views, assigning a price target near USD$100. They argue IonQ’s trapped-ion architecture positions the company for leadership if quantum adoption accelerates.
Additionally, Wedbush initiated coverage with a price target around USD$60, citing long-term platform potential. Wedbush analysts framed IonQ as an early but credible contender in a strategic computing market.
However, JPMorgan analysts adopted a more cautious stance.
They began coverage with a neutral rating and a price target near USD$47, pointing to valuation risk. JPMorgan said revenue remains limited relative to IonQ’s market capitalization. Meanwhile, MarketBeat consensus data shows most Wall Street analysts rate the stock a buy or strong buy.
Average targets cluster between USD$69 and USD$75 over a 12-month horizon. Separately, MarketsandMarkets does not assess IonQ directly but projects strong growth for quantum computing overall.
The research firm forecasts sustained expansion driven by government, defense, and enterprise demand. Consequently, bullish analysts often reference those market forecasts to justify long-term optimism. However, they also warn that commercialization timelines remain uncertain.
The divergence reflects a broader debate between near-term financial risk and long-term technological payoff.
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