The Basque Government and IBM have announced plans to deploy Europe’s first IBM Quantum System Two at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center, located on the Ikerbasque Foundation’s main campus in San Sebastian, Spain. This initiative builds upon their ongoing collaboration, which began in 2023 under the BasQ initiative, aiming to establish the Basque Country as a prominent technology hub. Originally, the partnership planned for the installation of an IBM Quantum System One; however, the strategy has now been upgraded to incorporate IBM’s most advanced modular quantum computer, the IBM Quantum System Two. The deployment is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025.
The IBM Quantum System Two at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center will be managed by IBM and powered by the IBM Quantum Heron processor—IBM’s most powerful quantum processor to date. Designed for scalability, the Heron processor supports multiple interconnected processors in the future. This technology is capable of executing utility-scale quantum algorithms that surpass classical computational methods. By utilizing the Qiskit software framework, the system will accurately run complex quantum circuits with up to 5,000 two-qubit gate operations.
Also Read: FormFactor & Delft Circuits Advance Quantum Interfaces
This installation marks a significant milestone in IBM’s efforts to expand Europe’s quantum computing ecosystem. It will provide Spain’s academic institutions, research laboratories, and industries with advanced quantum capabilities. As members of the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center gain access to these cutting-edge resources, they will be able to develop quantum-focused talent, drive economic growth, and create innovative quantum algorithms that align with the Basque Country Government’s IKUR 2030 vision. These advancements will contribute to crucial research areas, such as modeling new materials and exploring how quantum computing can support broader sustainability initiatives under IKUR 2030.
“With this scientific infrastructure, the Basque Country will be positioned as a global reference hub in quantum computing. This technology will help progress in the digital transformation and provide us with a state-of-the-art scientific infrastructure that will strengthen the scientific, technological and innovation ecosystem that must facilitate this transformation. The IBM Quantum System Two will be a key tool for the Basque Network for Science, Technology and Innovation to generate cutting-edge knowledge in the Basque Country, to implement highly specialized higher.