U.K. Quantum Security Company Expands to Arlington
November 9, 2023 | By Sindy Yeh
Arlington Economic Development spoke with David Kumashiro, General Manager for Arqit Inc., a publicly traded, cybersecurity company (NASDAQ: ARQQ) headquartered in the United Kingdom. Arqit is the developer of a platform-as-a Service solution, Quantum Cloud, designed to utilize quantum encryption to protect enterprise networks from “current and future forms of attack.” Arqit opened its first U.S. operations in Arlington earlier in 2023.
As a cybersecurity company, what are the benefits of locating in Arlington?
In Arqit’s search for our first U.S. office and our first office outside of our London headquarters, I looked for an area whose location was a model and catalyst for 21st Century innovation and leadership. As a tech company focused on post-quantum cybersecurity, the reimagination of Crystal City into what is now National Landing, met that objective. Sparked by the move of Amazon HQ2 and an existing local STEM pipeline, National Landing provides an incredibly rich and diverse pool of technical talent to support our region’s growing innovation ecosystem. I also strongly believe that the proximity to mass transit and Reagan National as well as a unique full-stack, digital infrastructure will continue to attract retail and residential investment that supports a more holistic work, live, play concept. Importantly, our juxtaposition to U.S. Federal Departments and Agencies as well as Congress will promote greater dialog and thought leadership as we look to achieve more rapid adoption and scaling of emerging technologies for National Security purposes.
What do you enjoy the most about living in Arlington?
As an Air Force dependent early in my life and later as an active-duty member of our U.S. Air Force, I’ve had the opportunity to be stationed around the country. During my career, I’ve been assigned here to the National Capital Region on several occasions. During my many experiences in different locations in the U.S., Arlington has provided a unique “hometown” vibe that I enjoy to this day.
What, personally, are some of you favorite attributes of the region?
Location, location, location! It’s really a combination of so many different attributes—proximity to events, restaurants, parks and areas to workout. I also have to say that being located adjacent to our Nation’s Capital has always been a humbling experience and continues to be great personal motivation to make an impact — to make things better.
Where do you see the industry going? How do you see it growing in the coming years?
Post-quantum security and innovation in general will only gain in importance in the coming years. As we’ve already seen with AI, quantum, hypersonics, and other software-enabled technologies, the time intervals between ground-breaking innovation will only become shorter. We must set conditions now to be able to continuously out-innovate our adversaries, and I strongly believe that Arlington provides a unique culture and setting to enable this high level of innovation.