Spain has announced the launch of its third quantum computer at the Barcelona Supercomputing Center, representing an investment of €9.8 million aimed at enhancing research and developing artificial intelligence technologies. This new computer will be integrated into the MareNostrum 5 system, which combines traditional computing with artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
This machine was designed and built by Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech, based in Barcelona, with support from the European Commission and the Spanish Ministry of State for Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence. This quantum computer differs from its predecessors as it is an analog quantum computer, whereas the previous two were digital.
Event Details
Quantum computers utilize qubits, which can represent two states simultaneously, allowing for the development of more powerful algorithms. In contrast, traditional computers operate using bits, which can only be either 0 or 1. This fundamental difference enables quantum computing to solve complex problems that traditional computers cannot handle.
The three quantum computers are located in the Torre Girona church, the same venue that hosted the first four versions of the MareNostrum computer between 2005 and 2023. The first two quantum computers were activated in February 2025, recording 4200 computing hours distributed across 53 research projects selected through official calls from the Spanish network for supercomputing.
Background & Context
Spain and the European Union are striving to enhance their technological independence in the face of major companies in the United States. This project is part of broader efforts to strengthen European technological capabilities and reduce reliance on critical infrastructure from third countries. This step may represent part of the European Commission's strategy to boost innovation and technology on the continent.
So far, EuroHPC JU has acquired six quantum computers distributed across various European countries, with three launched in Poland, the Czech Republic, and Germany. These computers form part of a future network of interconnected systems for scientific research and technological development.
Impact & Consequences
The Minister of Research and Universities in the Catalan government, Núria Montserrat, asserts that this project reinforces the idea of European technological sovereignty. She stated that the technologies developed here, supported by Catalan and Spanish public policies, enable Spain to produce its own European technology, contributing to strategic independence.
This new computer represents a milestone in the Spanish and European technological ecosystem, reflecting another step towards achieving the technological sovereignty sought by EuroHPC and BSC, in line with the European Commission's strategy.
Regional Significance
In light of global trends towards enhancing quantum computing, Arab countries can benefit from these developments by investing in research and development in this field. These new technologies could open wide avenues for scientific and technological cooperation between Arab countries and Europe, contributing to innovation in the region.
In conclusion, this achievement in Barcelona marks an important step towards enhancing technological capabilities in Europe and reflects Spain and the European Union's commitment to developing an independent technological infrastructure.