IBM and Basque Government Launch First Quantum Computing System in Europe

The Historic Launch of IBM Quantum System Two in Europe

On October 14, 2025, historic advancements in quantum computing were unveiled at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center in Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain. This event marked the inauguration of Europe's first IBM Quantum System Two, a significant milestone spotlighting an ambitious partnership between the Basque Government and IBM.

The initiative aims to establish Euskadi as a leading hub for quantum technologies, reinforcing the region’s commitment to innovation in scientific research and development. At the center of this collaboration is BasQ, a Basque Quantum initiative launched in 2023 to bolster the region's scientific community and attract top talent.

The unveiling ceremony gathered notable figures from both the Basque Government and IBM, including Imanol Pradales, Basque President, and Jay Gambetta, Director of IBM Research. Their remarks highlighted the strategic importance of this installation in enhancing research capabilities within fundamental physics and materials science. Pradales emphasized how this project would position Euskadi as a magnet for knowledge, innovation, and competitiveness, connecting it with other leading ecosystems in the field.

The IBM Quantum System Two, powered by a 156-qubit IBM Quantum Heron processor, is touted as one of the most powerful quantum computing systems in the world. Specifically designed for scalability and integration of multiple processors, this system empowers researchers to execute complex utility-scale algorithms that far surpass the limits of conventional computing methods.

During the event, Gambetta expressed his enthusiasm regarding the research possibilities that would emerge from utilizing the advanced capabilities of the IBM Heron processor. Since its inception, the collaboration has resulted in significant breakthroughs in materials science and high-energy physics, setting the stage for further explorations as the regional tech ecosystem evolves.

Fostering Quantum Ecosystem Development

Access to the IBM Quantum System Two will be granted to members of the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center, alongside various other resources aimed at nurturing Southern Europe's quantum ecosystem. The Basque Government's IKUR 2030 vision aims to harness these resources to develop applications in sectors such as energy, biomedicine, and artificial intelligence.

Moreover, this quantum initiative propels the Basque Country toward leadership on a global stage in quantum technologies. The collaboration is not solely about computation but encompasses a broader ecosystem designed to develop talent, attract investments, and generate applications that will advance sectors critical to future progress.

The foundation of this ambitious quantum strategy was laid back in 2019 when the Basque Government identified quantum technologies as a priority alongside fields like neuroscience and artificial intelligence. The latest deployment represents a culmination of ongoing investment and strategic planning aimed at maintaining the region's competitive edge in the evolving digital landscape.

Strategic Implications for the Basque Region

With the installation of the IBM Quantum System Two, the Basque Country is not just witnessing a technological upgrade; it is positioning itself as a critical player in IBM's global quantum network. This launch paves the way for tackling complex industry challenges, including the optimization of manufacturing processes and innovations in drug development through biomedical simulations.

In summary, the inauguration of the first IBM Quantum System Two in Europe at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center constitutes a landmark achievement in scientific and technological collaboration. The commitment of the Basque Government and IBM signifies a mutual dedication to powering advancements in quantum technologies, and its impact will likely resonate across regions and domains for years to come.

For further insights about the future of quantum computing and the collective efforts of IBM, BasQ, and academic institutions in Europe and beyond, interested readers are invited to explore the latest developments in this exciting field.