The Basque Government and IBM have announced a plan to install Europe's first IBM Quantum System Two at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center in San Sebastian, Spain. This installation is part of an ongoing collaboration under the BasQ initiative, which began in 2023, aimed at positioning the Basque Country as a leader in technology.
The updated agreement involves replacing the initially planned IBM Quantum System One with the more advanced modular quantum computer, IBM Quantum System Two. The installation is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
IBM's Heron processor will power this system. It is capable of executing complex algorithms that surpass classical simulation methods and can expand to multiple processors. The deployment aims to support Spain's quantum innovators across academia, research labs, and industries.
Jay Gambetta, Vice President of IBM Quantum, stated that "the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center's dedicated IBM Quantum System Two will give Spain's quantum community of researchers, developers, and industry experts unparalleled access to our most performant, most advanced quantum technologies—including the tools to develop algorithms that will help drive the entire quantum ecosystem toward achieving a quantum advantage within the next two years."
President of the Basque Country Government, Mr. Imanol Pradales said: "With this scientific infrastructure, the Basque Country will be positioned as a global reference hub in quantum computing... The arrival of this computer will be a great opportunity for the Basque Country's economic and social development."
The center was announced in 2023 to enhance technological capabilities across various governmental departments and elevate research institutions through international collaborations. Additionally, workforce programs are being developed to build world-class talent within Spain.
IBM continues its efforts to expand Europe's quantum ecosystem through this partnership. The project aligns with IKUR 2030 goals for developing new materials and exploring sustainability efforts using quantum computing.
For more information on these initiatives or about IBM's services globally, interested parties are directed to visit their website.
