New Quantum System: Spain’s first quantum computer uses fully European components.
Hybrid Computing: The device integrates with MareNostrum 5 for combined classical and quantum tasks.
National Initiative: Part of Quantum Spain, involving many research centers across the country.
The Barcelona Supercomputing Center – Centro Nacional de Supercomputación (BSC-CNS) has introduced the first quantum computer in Spain that uses 100% European technology. This effort strengthens the nation’s position in advanced computation and opens a path for hybrid systems that blend quantum and classical methods. The new hardware is tied to Quantum Spain, an initiative under the Ministry for Digital Transformation and Civil Service (SEDIA).
Financed through the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, this project aligns with the Digital Spain 2026 program and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (ENIA). A wide range of groups forms the backbone of Quantum Spain, including the 14 nodes of the Spanish Supercomputing Network, along with several universities and research institutions. Through these partnerships, experts aim to promote research and build industry connections.
Integration with MareNostrum 5
The freshly unveiled quantum infrastructure is located at Torre Girona chapel, where earlier versions of MareNostrum were housed. Now, it is prepared to become part of MareNostrum 5, among the strongest supercomputers in Spain and worldwide. Government officials and scientific leaders attended the unveiling, celebrating the country’s expanded computational capabilities.
This quantum system sits alongside one of the first European analogue quantum computers, granted to BSC by the European Commission’s High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU). Both machines apply different designs to solve high-level tasks and broaden the range of computational tools available. Their presence underscores Spain’s role in European high-performance computing.
"Quantum computing has the potential to transform diverse fields by enabling the study of phenomena at the atomic level. Its applications range from chemistry, where it could accelerate the development of new materials and medicines, to the resolution of complex problems in sectors such as logistics and finance."
— BSC
Opportunities for Research and Industry
Scientists, public organizations, and commercial entities can request access to this quantum resource through the Spanish Supercomputing Network. By joining classical and quantum technologies, the system supports tasks in fields like chemistry, logistics, and finance. It may also assist in developing next-generation materials and more efficient machine learning algorithms.
The potential impact extends beyond science labs. Improved optimization methods can drive development in logistics, while cryptography applications may benefit from advanced techniques that guard data. Such combined forces push innovation forward in Spain, generate specialized job roles, and help the country retain talent in advanced research.
"The new quantum computer was presented at an event held in the Torre Girona chapel, where the BSC installed the first four versions of the MareNostrum and now houses the new quantum infrastructure that will be integrated into MareNostrum 5, the most powerful supercomputer in Spain and one of the most advanced in the world."
— BSC
All-European Technology
This computer’s development rests on a joint venture by Qilimanjaro and GMV, both based in Spain. Their work centers on superconducting cubits, which represent multiple states at once. The result is a machine built solely from European technology, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
Beyond advancing computational autonomy for Spain and Europe, this step benefits the broader scientific community. Researchers gain hands-on experience with quantum systems, leading to deeper expertise and potential breakthroughs. As these quantum resources evolve, interest in advanced computing and specialized hardware should continue to rise.
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