The Basque Government and IBM have announced their plan to install Europe’s first "IBM Quantum System Two" at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center, located on the main campus of the Ikerbasque Foundation in Donostia. This project is part of the BasQ initiative, launched in 2023, which aims to establish the Basque Country as a leading technology hub. Initially, the plan was to install an IBM Quantum System One, but after an update to the agreement, the decision was made to deploy IBM’s most advanced modular quantum system: the IBM Quantum System Two, scheduled for installation by the end of 2025.
The IBM Quantum System Two, which will be managed by IBM, will feature the IBM Quantum Heron processor, the company’s most powerful processor to date. Designed to be scalable and capable of integrating multiple processors in the future, this system will enable the execution of utility-scale algorithms, surpassing brute-force classical simulation methods. Thanks to Qiskit software, it will be able to execute certain types of quantum circuits with up to 5,000 two-qubit gate operations.
This installation strengthens IBM’s commitment to expanding the European quantum ecosystem and will provide academic researchers, research laboratories, and industries across Spain with access to cutting-edge technology. Members of the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center will use this system to enhance quantum talent development, foster economic growth, and design new algorithms with practical applications, aligned with the IKUR 2030 strategy of the Basque Government for quantum technology development. Notable applications include the modeling of new materials and research on the role of quantum computing in sustainability initiatives.
"With this scientific infrastructure, the Basque Country will position itself as a global leader in quantum computing. This technology will be key to driving digital transformation and equipping us with a cutting-edge scientific infrastructure that will strengthen 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 the generation of cutting-edge knowledge, the development of highly specialized higher education programs, and the preparation of the Basque public and industrial sectors for the impact of quantum computing in the coming years. The arrival of this system will represent a major opportunity for the economic and social development of the Basque Country, as well as open the door to cooperation with other regions, countries, and stakeholders in the evolution of this technology," stated Lehendakari Imanol Pradales, accompanied by Gipuzkoa’s Deputy General, Eider Mendoza.
"The IBM Quantum System Two dedicated to the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center will provide Spain’s quantum community—researchers, developers, and industry experts—with unprecedented access to our most advanced quantum technology. These tools will enable the development of algorithms that will drive the quantum ecosystem forward and bring us closer to achieving quantum advantage within the next two years," said Jay Gambetta, Vice President of IBM Quantum.
About the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center
The IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center was announced in 2023 with the goal of promoting the use of advanced technologies across the Basque Government and the Provincial Councils of Araba, Bizkaia, and Gipuzkoa. Its mission is to elevate the research institutions in the region by expanding international scientific collaborations, conducting world-class fundamental research, and strengthening quantum talent.
The center will provide the necessary computational infrastructure for Basque Government researchers and their partners to achieve these goals. Additionally, IBM and the Basque Government are collaborating on the development of training programs to cultivate top-tier talent in quantum computing, both in the Basque Country and throughout Spain. These programs aim to raise awareness, educate, and develop skills through immersive and integrated learning experiences.
About IBM
IBM is a leading global provider of hybrid cloud and AI solutions, as well as consulting expertise. Today, it helps clients in over 175 countries leverage data insights, streamline business processes, reduce costs, and gain a competitive advantage in their industries. More than 4,000 government and corporate entities in critical infrastructure sectors—such as financial services, telecommunications, and healthcare—trust IBM’s hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to drive digital transformation quickly, efficiently, and securely.
IBM’s groundbreaking innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions, and consulting offer open and flexible options, all backed by its commitment to trust, transparency, accountability, inclusivity, and service.
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