Microsoft will provide the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) with direct, on-site access to its newest quantum computing hardware. The system utilizes Microsoft's latest Majorana 2 chip.
The hardware is located at a new research center in the University of Maryland's Discovery District. This arrangement enables DARPA to conduct independent testing and evaluation, replacing previous remote access protocols.
The collaboration supports DARPA's goal to develop an economically feasible, utility-scale quantum system by 2033. Microsoft executives stated the partnership enforces engineering discipline as the company transitions from research to commercial production.