IBM to Acquire HRL Laboratories from Boeing and General Motors
IBM has signed a definitive agreement to acquire HRL Laboratories, a private research and development organization jointly owned by Boeing and General Motors. As a result, the acquisition adds a second qubit technology to IBM’s long-term quantum computing strategy.
HRL Laboratories, based in Malibu, California, specializes in silicon-spin qubit engineering and quantum sensing technologies. The company’s expertise will complement IBM’s existing superconducting qubit approach, while both technologies continue to rely on silicon-based fabrication methods.
“The HRL team will help IBM push even farther forward toward the frontiers of quantum innovation,” said Jay Gambetta, IBM’s Director of Research and IBM Fellow.
Rob Vasquez, HRL’s president and CEO, said the company looks forward to leveraging IBM’s industry leadership and working alongside its talent on fundamental infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Boeing and General Motors will continue collaborating with IBM on quantum computing applications after the acquisition closes.
Acquisition strengthens IBM’s quantum roadmap
The agreement follows IBM’s announcement in June that it will invest more than $10 billion in quantum computing over the next five years. The investment supports research, manufacturing, ecosystem partnerships, and strategic acquisitions. In addition, the plan includes the establishment of Anderon, described as America’s first quantum wafer foundry and supported by $1 billion in CHIPS Act incentives.
IBM aims to launch IBM Quantum Starling by 2029 with the capability to perform 100 million quantum operations on 200 qubits. Later, the company plans to introduce the Blue Jay system in the mid-2030s, targeting 1 billion quantum operations.
Furthermore, HRL contributes expertise in cryogenics, control electronics, qubit interconnects, packaging, and advanced materials. These capabilities could enhance IBM’s current superconducting systems while also supporting future silicon-spin quantum technologies.
Deal expected to close in 2026
IBM did not disclose the financial terms of the acquisition. However, the transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. If approvals proceed as expected, both companies anticipate completing the deal by the end of the third quarter of 2026.
