The Basque Government and IBM have announced plans to install Europe's first IBM Quantum System Two at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center in San Sebastian, Spain. This initiative is part of their ongoing partnership, which began in 2023 under the BasQ initiative aimed at establishing the Basque Country as a leading technology hub. The installation of this advanced modular quantum computer is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

The IBM Quantum System Two will be powered by an IBM Quantum Heron processor, designed to execute complex algorithms beyond classical simulation capabilities. It can handle up to 5,000 two-qubit gate operations using Qiskit software.

"This scientific infrastructure will position the Basque Country as a global reference hub in quantum computing," said Mr. Imanol Pradales, President of the Basque Country Government. He emphasized that this technology would support digital transformation and strengthen the region's scientific ecosystem.

Jay Gambetta, Vice President of IBM Quantum, stated that "the dedicated IBM Quantum System Two will give Spain's quantum community unparalleled access to our most performant, most advanced quantum technologies."

The installation aims to benefit Spain's quantum innovators across academia, research labs, and industries. It aligns with the Basque Country Government's IKUR 2030 vision for quantum technologies and supports efforts like modeling new materials and sustainability initiatives.

The IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center was established in 2023 to promote advanced technology use across various sectors within the Basque Country Government. It aims to enhance international research collaborations and increase quantum-trained talent in the region.

IBM continues its collaboration with the Basque Government on workforce programs designed to build world-class talent in Spain. These programs focus on education and skill-building through immersive learning experiences.

For more information about these developments, visit https://research.ibm.com.