IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), a quantum computing company, has signed a strategic partnership with SDT, a Korean quantum technology and software company, accelerating its push into the domestic quantum computing market.

◆ Supply of 'Superion 256' and SiV Quantum Memory... From Software to Hardware

IonQ announced that it has signed a multi-year cooperation agreement with SDT to supply the 'Superion 256' quantum computer and a silicon-vacancy (SiV)-based quantum memory module. The core of this partnership is that the two companies are expanding their existing cloud-based software integration cooperation into actual hardware production and assembly, system integration, and domestic sales.

Niccolo de Masi, Chairman and CEO of IonQ, said, "Demand for the new Superion 256 system is growing around the world," adding, "This Asia-Pacific contract is another example showing that customers are combining IonQ's quantum computers with quantum networking and quantum memory solutions." He continued, "We are proud to expand our business footprint in Korea while pioneering cancer and biomedical research using quantum technology," and emphasized, "Through this purchase, SDT will secure the key foundation needed for high-performance quantum computing and the construction of future quantum data centers."

◆ Hybrid Quantum-Classical Data Center... Manufacturing and Integration Facility in Gumi

The Superion 256 system is scheduled to be installed for SDT's customers in Korea. IonQ and SDT plan to cooperate in building a 'hybrid quantum-classical data center' that combines quantum computing with conventional computing technology based on this system.

In particular, SDT will establish a dedicated quantum technology manufacturing and system integration facility in Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province. At this facility, IonQ's SiV quantum memory packaging and manufacturing, as well as quantum system assembly, integration, and commissioning, will take place. As a result, attention is focused on what role Gumi will play in IonQ's global quantum computing supply chain.

SDT CEO Yoon Ji-won said, "IonQ is leading the global quantum industry in terms of technology and manufacturing innovation," adding, "Our goal is to make the new Gumi facility a key operational hub for IonQ's global supply chain and local business deployment." He explained, "We plan to carry out manufacturing operations in Gumi and assemble world-class quantum systems," and "SDT will participate in the assembly and operation of IonQ quantum systems while also actively seeking opportunities to produce more quantum components."

◆ Expansion into Healthcare and Biotech... Participation in Cancer Center Project

The two companies are also expanding their cooperation to apply quantum computing in the healthcare and biotech sectors. SDT plans to participate in a separate cancer center project being pursued in Korea and work with IonQ to develop hybrid quantum-classical computing infrastructure for medical and biomedical research.

CEO Yoon said, "Through these projects, we will be able to realize SDT's quantum design and manufacturing strategy as actual businesses at the assembly, operation, and system integration stages, while also expanding manufacturing and domestic commercialization opportunities."

◆ Continued Business Expansion in Korea Following KISTI, SK Telecom, and Hyundai Motor

This contract is interpreted as an extension of IonQ's business expansion strategy in Korea. IonQ has been cooperating with Korean institutions and companies, including the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI), SK Telecom, and Hyundai Motor Company. It has also built cooperative relationships with major Korean universities such as Seoul National University and Sungkyunkwan University, broadening its foothold in the Korean quantum computing ecosystem.

The partnership with SDT expands the scope of cooperation from the existing research- and software-centered focus to hardware manufacturing and assembly, data centers, and medical and biotech research infrastructure, drawing attention to how much IonQ's business domain in Korea will grow going forward.

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