IBM, in collaboration with Japan’s RIKEN research institute, has launched the first IBM Quantum System Two in Japan — marking the first deployment of the advanced quantum computing system outside the United States and beyond IBM’s own data centers.
The system is co-located with the powerful supercomputer Fugaku at the RIKEN Center for Computational Science in Kobe. This strategic integration enables researchers to explore hybrid computing by linking IBM’s latest 156-qubit Heron quantum processor with one of the world’s leading classical machines.
Supported by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) under Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), this initiative is part of a national effort to build post-5G communication and computational infrastructure.
The IBM Heron processor represents a significant leap in quantum performance. It boasts a two-qubit error rate of 3x10⁻³ (with the best performance at 1x10⁻³), and a processing speed of 250,000 CLOPS (circuit layer operations per second) — both ten times better than its predecessor, the IBM Eagle. This positions Heron as the most performant quantum processor in the world, capable of running circuits beyond the capability of classical simulation.
By connecting Heron to Fugaku, RIKEN and IBM are pioneering quantum-centric supercomputing approaches. This collaboration allows for low-latency communication between the two systems, enabling new possibilities in algorithm design, simulation, and practical quantum-classical workflows in fields like materials science and quantum chemistry.
Speaking at the launch event, IBM Quantum VP Jay Gambetta said, “The future of computing is quantum-centric. With our partners at RIKEN, we are taking a big step forward to realize that future.”
Dr. Mitsuhisa Sato of RIKEN added, “Combining Fugaku and IBM Quantum System Two allows us to demonstrate practical quantum-HPC hybrid workflows that benefit both science and industry.”
The launch ceremony on June 24 was attended by top officials including RIKEN President Makoto Gonokami, IBM Japan General Manager Akio Yamaguchi, and representatives from the Japanese government and Kobe Prefecture. The installation marks a major milestone in Japan’s ambition to become a leader in next-generation high-performance computing.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
