The Basque Government and IBM announce the installation of Europe’s First ‘IBM Quantum System Two’ at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center in Euskadi

The Basque Government and IBM have announced their plan to install the first IBM Quantum System Two in Europe at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center, located on the main campus of the Ikerbasque Foundation in Donostia. This initiative is part of the BasQ program, launched in 2023, aimed at establishing Euskadi as a leading quantum technology hub. Initially, the plan was to install an IBM Quantum System One, but following an update to the agreement, the decision was made to deploy IBM’s most advanced modular quantum system, the IBM Quantum System Two, with installation scheduled for late 2025.

The IBM Quantum System Two, managed by IBM, will feature the IBM Quantum Heron processor, IBM’s most powerful to date. Designed for scalability, it allows the integration of multiple processors in the future, enabling the execution of algorithms at quantum utility scale, surpassing brute-force classical simulation methods. With Qiskit software, it will be capable of running specific types of quantum circuits with up to 5,000 two-qubit gate operations.

This installation reinforces IBM’s commitment to expanding the European quantum ecosystem, providing academic researchers, research laboratories, and industries in Spain with access to cutting-edge quantum technology. The IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center members will use this system to strengthen quantum talent development, drive economic growth, and design new algorithms with practical applications aligned with the Basque Government’s IKUR 2030 strategy for quantum technology development. Key applications include the modeling of new materials and exploring the role of quantum computing in sustainability initiatives.

“With this scientific infrastructure, Euskadi will position itself as a global reference in quantum computing. This technology will be key to advancing digital transformation and equipping us with state-of-the-art scientific infrastructure, strengthening our science, technology, and innovation ecosystem. The IBM Quantum System Two will be an essential tool for the Basque Science, Technology, and Innovation Network, enabling cutting-edge research, highly specialized higher education programs, and preparing the Basque public and industrial sectors for the impact of quantum computing in the coming years. The arrival of this system represents a major opportunity for Euskadi’s economic and social development, while also fostering cooperation with other regions, countries, and stakeholders in the evolution of this technology,” stated Lehendakari Imanol Pradales, alongside Gipuzkoa’s General Deputy Eider Mendoza.

“The IBM Quantum System Two dedicated to the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center will provide the Spanish quantum community—researchers, developers, and industry experts—unprecedented access to our most advanced quantum technology. These tools will enable the development of algorithms that will accelerate the quantum ecosystem and bring us closer to achieving quantum advantage within the next two years,” added Jay Gambetta, IBM Quantum Vice President.

About the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center

The IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center was announced in 2023 to promote the use of advanced technologies across the Basque Government and the Provincial Councils of Araba, Bizkaia, and Gipuzkoa. Its mission is to elevate the region’s research institutions by expanding international scientific collaborations, conducting world-class fundamental research, and strengthening quantum talent in the Basque Country.

The center will provide the computational infrastructure necessary for Basque Government researchers and partners to achieve these objectives. Additionally, IBM and the Basque Government are collaborating on the development of training programs to cultivate top-tier quantum computing talent, both in Euskadi and throughout Spain. These programs aim to raise awareness, educate, and develop skills through immersive and integrated learning experiences.

Source: Irekia