MSFT · News · 20260923N

Quantum Computing DARPA Testing

MICROSOFT CORP · 2026-09-23 · Importance 31 · Surprise 42

Microsoft opened a 15,000-square-foot quantum research center in Maryland and made its Majorana 2-based topological quantum system available for independent DARPA testing. The work is part of DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative, which is evaluating the commercial viability of quantum-computing approaches through 2033. Independent testing will assess Microsoft’s approach to reducing quantum error-correction requirements and could influence the timing and commercial prospects of its quantum strategy.

Key facts

• DARPA's Quantum Benchmarking Initiative aims to evaluate the commercial viability of quantum computing paths by 2033, and Microsoft has made its system available to that effort. source
• Microsoft made its Majorana 2-based topological quantum system available for independent testing by DARPA. source