- IBM has struck a deal to buy HRL Laboratories
- HRL adds silicon-spin qubit and sensing expertise to IBM’s portfolio
- Explore government tech priorities at the 2026 FedCiv Summit
IBM has agreed to acquire HRL Laboratories from Boeing and General Motors for an undisclosed sum as part of efforts to expand its quantum computing capabilities.
As quantum computing continues to reshape the federal technology landscape, government and industry leaders are looking ahead to what these advances mean for mission delivery. The Potomac Officers Club will host the 2026 FedCiv Summit on Oct. 29, bringing together senior officials and executives to discuss the technologies driving change across federal civilian agencies. Save your seat now and join the conversation shaping the future of government innovation.
IBM said Thursday it will continue to work with Boeing and GM on quantum applications and advanced technology development efforts. The company expects the transaction to close by the end of the third quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.
What Is HRL Laboratories?
HRL Laboratories is a private research and development company founded in 1948. A joint venture of Boeing and GM, HRL has worked on physical science and engineering programs for commercial and U.S. government customers across the defense, aerospace and automotive industries.
What Does HRL Bring to IBM?
HRL brings expertise in silicon-spin qubit engineering and quantum sensing to IBM. The company’s quantum sensors are built to detect subtle physical phenomena and capture precise measurements for life sciences, defense, navigation and scientific applications. HRL has also developed innovations in quantum materials aimed at improving semiconductors and sensors.
Beyond quantum computing, HRL holds capabilities in cryogenics, qubit interconnects, control electronics and packaging. The company also has expertise in high-speed and high-power communications, advanced sensors, electronics, advanced manufacturing and materials science.
What Did IBM & HRL Officials Say About the Deal?
Jay Gambetta, IBM’s director of research and an IBM fellow, said the HRL team will help IBM advance toward the frontiers of quantum innovation. He said HRL’s portfolio will strengthen IBM’s long-term plans to deliver quantum computing, sensing and networking advances.
Rob Vasquez, president and CEO of HRL, said joining IBM is the next chapter for the work HRL has built, including exploring how future quantum computers could be built at greater scale. He said HRL’s physical and information science innovations will combine with IBM’s research capabilities to serve commercial and government customers.
How Does the HRL Acquisition Fit Into IBM’s Quantum Roadmap?
The proposed acquisition builds on a series of quantum computing moves by IBM in recent months. In June, IBM unveiled a potential five-year, $10 billion investment plan to support quantum computing research, development and commercialization efforts. In May, IBM announced plans to launch Anderon, a quantum foundry subsidiary that will build superconducting wafers, with support from the Department of Commerce.
IBM has also outlined its roadmap for Quantum Starling, expanded work on quantum networking technologies with Cisco and participated in the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative Stage B program.
