In a significant move for European quantum infrastructure, IBM and Lockheed Martin have entered into an agreement with armasuisse to establish a national quantum innovation hub in Switzerland. The initiative centers on the deployment of the country's first on-premises IBM Quantum System Two, which is slated for installation by the end of 2026.
The hardware will be hosted at the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS) in Lugano. This facility is designed to provide a sophisticated quantum-centric supercomputing environment, specifically engineered to support hybrid classical-quantum workflows. By integrating these systems, researchers can leverage the combined power of traditional high-performance computing and emerging quantum capabilities.
At the heart of this deployment is the Nighthawk r2 processor, a key component of IBM's quantum hardware roadmap. The infrastructure aims to provide a robust platform for both academic exploration and industrial application, fostering a collaborative ecosystem for high-level computational research.
Beyond academic research, the project carries significant strategic weight. Funded by Swiss defense procurement, the hub will include dedicated research and development programs focused on defense applications. This underscores the growing intersection between quantum advancement and national security, positioning Switzerland as a key player in the global quantum race.
This partnership represents a major milestone for the Swiss quantum landscape, providing a dedicated space for innovation that bridges the gap between theoretical research and practical, large-scale implementation.