IBM has announced its selection for Stage B of the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI), a program led by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). This marks IBM’s advancement to the second of three phases in an effort to develop a fault-tolerant quantum computer that can offer computational benefits greater than its costs.
DARPA, which serves as the independent research and development organization for the U.S. Department of Defense, launched QBI in 2024. The initiative is focused on evaluating whether it is feasible to build an industrially viable quantum computer by 2033. The program involves rigorous validation and verification of different technological approaches through third-party assessment.
“IBM’s progression to Stage B of DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative is a firm validation of IBM’s approach to delivering a large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer,” said Jay Gambetta, Director of IBM Research. “IBM has publicly laid out our comprehensive plan and roadmap to scale quantum computers towards fault-tolerance. As the industry advances, we look forward to working with DARPA as they continue an unbiased review of potential viable strategies across the field.”
Stage B requires participants to present a detailed research and development plan outlining how they intend to achieve a cost-effective, fault-tolerant quantum computer. It also involves identifying risks and proposing ways to address them. IBM is collaborating with SEEQC during this phase to explore new methods for scaling control systems for quantum computers.
According to DARPA, each QBI participant must progress through three stages: Stage A involved submitting an initial technical concept; Stage B focuses on research planning and risk mitigation; and Stage C will see independent verification teams test the actual hardware developed by companies.
Further details about QBI are available on the DARPA website.
