Test & Evaluation for the IARPA Quantum Enhanced Optimization Program

Abstract

The IARPA Quantum Enhanced Optimization (QEO) program requires cost-effective, state-of-art, objective, and programmatically flexible Test and Evaluation (T&E) capabilities to validate that performer results are precise and accurate as reported, relative to the Program goals. To this end, Texas A&M University (TAMU) is uniquely suited to work as NASA's subcontractor for the T&E effort. In particular, TAMU and NASA have shared and unique capabilities, as well as validation roles and objectives. These include expertise in error models, the effects of noise on classical benchmarks, enhancement models, projections, and corroboration of results, precision requirements vs mis-specification, as well as quantum advantage via tailored problems based on spin glasses, CSPs, and current applications of interest to IARPA. TAMU provides IARPA through NASA a highly-responsive and authoritative means to quantify the deepest significance of performer results relative to QEO goals, and their broader significance to the community and future IARPA interests.