IBM and the Basque Government to Introduce Europe's First IBM Quantum System Two in Spain

IBM and the Basque Government will install Europe’s first IBM Quantum System Two at the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Centre in San Sebastián, Spain. Originally planned as an IBM Quantum System One, the project has been upgraded to the more advanced modular system, set for completion by late 2025.

Figure 1.IBM's Quantum System.

Powered by the 156-qubit IBM Quantum Heron processor, the system will enable complex quantum algorithms, surpassing traditional computing. It will be housed at the Ikerbasque Foundation’s main campus, a research institution supported by the Basque Government. Figure 1 shows IBM's Quantum System.

Impact of the IBM Quantum Heron Processor on Spain

The installation will bolster Spain’s quantum ecosystem by providing vital resources for researchers, academics, and industry professionals.

As part of the IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Centre, the system will play a key role in fostering a skilled quantum workforce, driving economic growth, and developing algorithms aligned with the Basque Country Government’s IKUR 2030 vision for quantum technologies.

These efforts will support research initiatives in material modeling and explore how quantum computing can contribute to sustainability goals outlined in IKUR 2030.

A Global Hub for Quantum Computing

Imanol Pradales, President of the Basque Country Government, highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that the new scientific infrastructure will establish the Basque Country as a global hub for quantum computing, driving digital transformation and strengthening innovation.

Ana Paula De Jesus Assis, SVP and Chair at IBM EMEA, emphasized the significance of the upgrade, calling it "IBM’s most advanced modular quantum computer."

Pradales further noted that IBM Quantum System Two will be a key resource for the Basque Network for Science, Technology, and Innovation, fostering cutting-edge research, specialized education, and readiness for quantum computing’s future impact. He also stressed that this development presents a major opportunity for economic and social growth, facilitating collaboration with other regions and global stakeholders in advancing quantum technology.

Building a Quantum Workforce in the Basque Country

The IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Centre was established in 2023 to promote advanced technology adoption across the Basque Country Government and the General Deputations of Araba, Bizkaia, and Gipuzkoa.

Key Highlights:

IBM to install Europe's first Quantum System Two in Spain by 2025

The IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Centre aims to establish the Basque Country as a global quantum computing hub

IBM seeks to revolutionize fields like physics, information science, and materials science

The centre is committed to strengthening research institutions by fostering international collaborations, advancing fundamental scientific research, and increasing the number of quantum-trained professionals in the region.

IBM and the Basque Government are also developing workforce programs to build quantum expertise across Spain. These initiatives focus on education, skills training, and immersive learning experiences, ensuring that the region capitalizes on the economic potential of quantum computing.

Jay Gambetta, Vice President of IBM Quantum, underscored the significance of this installation:"The IBM-Euskadi Quantum Computational Centre’s dedicated IBM Quantum System Two will provide Spain’s quantum community—including researchers, developers, and industry experts—unparalleled access to our most advanced quantum technologies. This will help drive the entire quantum ecosystem toward achieving quantum advantage within the next two years."

Source: IBM

Cite this article:

Keerthana S (2025),IBM's Quantum Breakthrough: Europe's First System Two Arrives in Spain, AnaTechMaz, pp. 213