(WKTV) Rome Lab will be receiving $18 million in federal funding, including $8 million for a Quantum Information Science Innovation Center. Congressman Anthony Brindisi says the Rome Air Force Research Laboratory is leading the industry in quantum information technology for the Department of Defense.
“This is a big win for Upstate New York and our troops,” Brindisi said. “Securing these critical funds for Rome Lab will allow the Mohawk Valley to continue to innovate and lead in the development of cutting-edge military technology. Keeping our country safe is my top priority and the mission at Rome Lab is critical to protecting our national security.”
An additional $5 million in funding has also been designated for quantum science research. In 2017, Rome Lab became the first Department of Defense lab to trap an ion, which was considered a major development of quantum capabilities for the Air Force.
In addition to the QIS Innovation Center funds, $5 million will also go toward counter unmanned aircraft system research.