Key Takeaway
The global race for quantum computing supremacy is heating up as nations and tech firms invest heavily. IBM and the Basque Government plan to install Europe’s first IBM Quantum System Two at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Centre in San Sebastian, Spain, replacing an earlier plan for the IBM Quantum System One. Expected to be operational by late 2025, the IBM Quantum System Two will utilize a Quantum Heron processor with 156 qubits, enabling advanced quantum algorithms. This installation aims to enhance Spain’s quantum ecosystem, benefiting researchers, academics, and industry professionals.
The global competition for quantum computing dominance is heating up as countries and tech companies invest billions to secure an advantage in this groundbreaking field.
Recently, IBM and the Basque Government revealed plans to install Europe’s first IBM Quantum System Two at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Centre in San Sebastian, Spain.
Following the initial announcement, the organizations have decided to revise their original plan to install an IBM Quantum System One, opting instead for IBM’s most advanced modular quantum computer, IBM Quantum System Two, which is anticipated to be operational by the end of 2025.
The IBM Quantum System Two will utilize an IBM Quantum Heron processor, which boasts 156 qubits—the fundamental unit of quantum information.
This processor facilitates the execution of quantum algorithms that surpass the capabilities of traditional computing methods, including the ability to perform certain types of quantum circuits with up to 5,000 two-qubit gate operations using IBM’s Qiskit software development kit.
The quantum computer will be situated on the main campus of the Ikerbasque Foundation, a research organization funded by the Basque Government.
What impact will the IBM Quantum Heron processor have on Spain?
The installation will support Spain’s quantum ecosystem, offering resources to researchers, academics, and industry professionals.








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