The Basque Government and IBM unveiled Europe’s first quantum system, the IBM Quantum System Two, at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center in San Sebastián on October 14, 2025. The groundbreaking installation features a 156-qubit processor, marking a significant milestone in the partnership between the Basque region and the global technology leader.
Basque Country’s Quantum Ambitions with IKUR 2030
The Basque Government and IBM have taken a significant step forward in their joint quantum technology initiative, unveiling Europe’s first IBM Quantum System Two at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center in San Sebastián. This strategic partnership, established in 2023 under the BasQ program, aims to position Euskadi as a global leader in quantum technologies by leveraging IBM’s advanced quantum computing resources.
Building on this milestone, the installation of the IBM Quantum System Two is a testament to the collaborative efforts between local and international experts. The system, powered by a 156-qubit IBM Quantum Heron processor, represents a substantial leap forward from classical computing capabilities, enabling the execution of complex algorithms at unprecedented speeds. This breakthrough not only strengthens the Basque Country’s position in the global quantum technology landscape but also paves the way for innovations across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, financial services, and cybersecurity.
The unveiling of this system signifies more than just a technological achievement; it embodies the broader ambition of IKUR 2030, the Basque government’s strategy to foster innovation and economic growth through advanced technologies. By fostering collaborations like the one with IBM, Euskadi is not only positioning itself at the forefront of quantum computing but also demonstrating its commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for societal benefit and economic development.
Europe’s First IBM Quantum System Two Unveiled in San Sebastián
In San Sebastián, Spain, at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Center, the Basque Government and IBM unveiled Europe’s first IBM Quantum System Two. According to the company announcement, this system, powered by a 156-qubit IBM Quantum Heron processor, represents a significant technological milestone. Building on their partnership since 2023 under the BasQ initiative, the installation marks the first such deployment outside the US, showcasing European leadership in quantum computing.
IBM Heron Processor Powers Utility-Scale Quantum Algorithms
The IBM Heron processor, a key component of Europe’s first quantum system unveiled by the Basque Government and IBM, is a marvel of engineering designed to handle complex computational tasks that classical computers find intractable. This processor boasts an impressive 156-qubit capability, making it one of the most powerful quantum processors developed by IBM up to date. The Heron processor’s scalable architecture allows for future integration of multiple processors, enhancing its utility and performance across various applications.
Meanwhile, this technological advancement paves the way for executing utility-scale algorithms that were previously out of reach. By enabling the simulation and optimization of large-scale systems and processes, this system has the potential to revolutionize industries such as pharmaceuticals, finance, and materials science. The ability to run these complex algorithms efficiently could lead to breakthroughs in drug discovery, financial modeling, and material design, ultimately driving innovation and economic growth.
Building on this progress, the IBM Quantum System Two marks a significant step forward in making quantum computing accessible and practical for a wide range of applications. This system’s deployment not only bolsters the Basque region’s position as an international hub for quantum technologies but also sets a precedent for global collaboration in advancing quantum science and technology. As researchers and developers alike explore the vast possibilities offered by this processor, we can expect to see a future where quantum computing plays a pivotal role in shaping the technological landscape of tomorrow.
This development could enable significant advancements in fields such as drug discovery, climate modeling, and financial analysis. Within five years, the technology may revolutionize how industries operate, potentially reducing costs by billions of dollars annually. The implications extend beyond quantum computing to enhance global competitiveness and foster innovation across Europe and globally. By 2026, researchers expect breakthroughs that could lead to new medical treatments, more accurate weather predictions, and smarter financial strategies. For industries relying on complex simulations and data analysis, this represents a paradigm shift that will drive growth and efficiency.
