Europe Connects Quantum Computers into Networks

The LUMI-Q quantum computer, inaugurated in Ostrava, Czech Republic, features 24 superconducting qubits in a unique star-shaped topology. This design, supplied by IQM Quantum Computers for approximately €5 million, enhances qubit connectivity and reduces errors, a significant architectural advantage. The project is co-funded by the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking and a consortium of thirteen partners from eight European nations. This initiative is part of the broader EuroHPC JU strategy to deploy multiple quantum computers across Europe, integrating them with classical supercomputers in Czechia, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, and Poland. The goal is to create a hybrid classical-quantum computing infrastructure, accessible to researchers and industry across Europe for applications in materials science, drug discovery, and finance. This network is a key component of the EU's Quantum Flagship program, a decade-long, €1 billion initiative started in 2018. The Pasqal-Welinq "Interqo" project is backed by a joint roadmap aiming for 1,000-qubit processors in the near term and 10,000-qubit systems between 2026-2027. Their approach relies on networking individual quantum processing units (QPUs) using Welinq's quantum memory technology, which is crucial for scaling up to fault-tolerant computing. This collaboration is backed by significant venture funding, with Pasqal having raised over €140 million to date. These hardware advancements are complemented by the European Quantum Communication Infrastructure (EuroQCI) initiative, which aims to build an ultra-secure, continent-wide communication network. By integrating terrestrial fiber networks with satellite-based quantum key distribution (QKD), EuroQCI will add a quantum security layer to protect critical infrastructure and governmental data. Turkey is also making strategic moves in quantum technology, aligning with its 2030 Industry and Technology Strategy. The government has announced plans for a National Quantum Institute and a superconducting chip production facility to build domestic capabilities. These efforts are focused on defense applications, AI, and data security, with the goal of positioning Turkey as a key global player in the field. The nation's first quantum computer was unveiled in late 2024 by the TOBB University of Economics and Technology in Ankara, a project designed to support a domestic quantum ecosystem of startups and hardware developers. Turkish startups are already emerging, such as Qubitrium, which raised €1.5 million to develop a satellite-based QKD payload. This aligns with the national strategy to increase domestic content in the defense and aerospace sectors and reach $8 billion in exports.