IBM, Lockheed Martin team up to bring Switzerland its first 120-qubit quantum computer

Switzerland is set to get its first IBM quantum computer, with an IBM Quantum System Two planned for installation at the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS) in Lugano by the end of 2026. IBM and Lockheed Martin are establishing a quantum innovation hub at ETH Zurich through an offset agreement with armasuisse, Switzerland’s Federal Office for Defence Procurement. The initiative is designed to give Swiss researchers, companies and startups direct access to advanced quantum computing hardware and expertise. IBM will operate the Quantum System Two, which will be powered by the company’s Nighthawk processor. ETH Zurich will provide infrastructure, technical expertise and access for Swiss academia and industry, while also supporting education and workforce development. The system is expected to give researchers a dedicated platform for developing quantum algorithms and testing applications that could eventually be used in areas such as chemistry, materials science, optimization and financial services. Quantum hardware reaches Switzerland The new facility could give Switzerland a stronger base for turning quantum research into practical applications. Organizations joining the innovation hub through ETH Zurich will also gain access to IBM’s wider fleet of quantum computers through the cloud. The initiative will combine that computing access with courses, certifications, workshops, hackathons and other programs intended to train people in quantum technologies. “Switzerland will gain access to essential research infrastructure that will enable us to further advance the exploration of this emerging technology and educate the talent needed to support it,” said ETH Zurich President Joël Mesot. The project also expands an existing relationship between IBM and Lockheed Martin. The companies plan to pursue research with selected Swiss academic institutions, focusing on quantum sensing for navigation and ways to improve additive manufacturing of metallic alloys. Research targets sensing manufacturing Quantum sensing could eventually offer new approaches to navigation and other measurement challenges, while advances in additive manufacturing could improve how metallic components are produced. Lockheed Martin said the collaboration will combine its work in quantum sensing and additive manufacturing with IBM’s capabilities in quantum computing and AI. “This project extends the strategic relationship between Lockheed Martin and IBM in quantum and AI while positioning Switzerland as a leader in these critical, cutting-edge fields,” said Dr. Craig Martell, Lockheed Martin vice president and chief technology officer. “It provides resources and expertise, develops skills and enables joint research across the Swiss commercial, defense and academic ecosystem.” For IBM, the project also strengthens its long-running presence in Switzerland. The company said its Zurich research laboratory has been part of the country’s scientific ecosystem for decades. IBM and ETH Zurich recently began a 10-year effort focused on foundational algorithmic research for the AI and quantum era. “As we continue to foster innovation with the Swiss community, we are excited to have the opportunity to put world-class quantum hardware, software and expertise directly into the hands of Switzerland’s thriving academic institutions and industries,” said Alessandro Curioni, vice president, Algorithms and Applications, IBM Research and director of the Zurich Research Laboratory.The Quantum System Two is expected to be deployed by the end of 2026, giving Swiss researchers a dedicated quantum computing resource alongside access to IBM’s global quantum infrastructure.Get the latest in engineering, tech, space & science - delivered daily to your inbox.With over a decade-long career in journalism, Neetika Walter has worked with The Economic Times, ANI, and Hindustan Times, covering politics, business, technology, and the clean energy sector. Passionate about contemporary culture, books, poetry, and storytelling, she brings depth and insight to her writing. When she isn’t chasing stories, she’s likely lost in a book or enjoying the company of her dogs.