Eaton Wins $7 Million AFRL Contract to Apply Quantum Computing to Grid Security
Eaton has been awarded a $7 million (€6.1 million), 24-month contract from the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory to apply quantum computing, machine learning, and visualization to power grid resilience. Working with Infleqtion and Pennsylvania State University, the project develops quantum-enabled algorithms and hybrid quantum-classical methods for detecting concurrent physical and cyber threats. The effort explores scenarios beyond traditional N-1 contingency planning and will culminate in a proof-of-concept demonstration on available quantum hardware. Sid Suryanarayanan of Eaton highlighted the need for tools to evaluate many failures simultaneously amid rising weather, physical, and cyber risks.
August 7, 2026