Germany Unveils First Hybrid Quantum Computer in Collaboration with IQM

Germany’s first hybrid quantum computer has reached a significant milestone by being integrated into the supercomputer, SuperMUC-NG, at the Leibniz Supercomputing Centre (LRZ). The €40m hybrid Q-Exa system features a 20 qubit machine from IQM Quantum Computers, coupled with a supercomputer boasting 311,040 Xeon Skylake processor cores and a main memory of 719 TB. Test runs have proven successful, demonstrating the seamless collaboration between the two cutting-edge technologies.

The LRZ is gearing up to open the system to researchers, aiming to elevate Germany’s status as a technology hub for pioneering work on future technologies within the Munich Quantum Valley. The development consortium, which includes Eviden and HQS Quantum Simulation, has been collaborating with LRZ since 2022. Unlike traditional laboratory setups, the Q-Exa system is strategically positioned in close proximity to other high-performance computing systems at LRZ, offering researchers remote access to conduct experiments, develop algorithms, and scientific codes.

The primary objective of the project was to establish connections between quantum processing units (QPUs) based on superconducting circuits and a supercomputer, while also creating interfaces and control tools to facilitate this integration. The supercomputer, boasting a performance of 26.9 PetaFlop/s, utilizes Intel OmniPath network 100 Gbit/s technology to connect to 64 Nvidia V100 GPU cores. Furthermore, the system is currently undergoing upgrades with the latest Intel Sapphire Rapids CPU cores.

In addition to the hybrid Q-Exa system, experts at LRZ and partner institutions within the Munich Quantum Valley have developed the prototype of the Munich Quantum Software Stack (MQSS). This innovative software stack seamlessly integrates quantum systems into supercomputer workflows and is complemented by other quantum technologies. Soon, this program package will be accessible to researchers as an open-source version, further fostering collaboration and innovation in the quantum computing realm.

Markus Blume, Bavarian State Minister for Science and the Arts, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The quantum computing mission is flying at a high pace in Bavaria. The integration of a quantum computer into a conventional supercomputer is an international breakthrough, solidifying Bavaria’s position as a global hotspot for cutting-edge technologies in the 21st century.” The successful development of the Q-Exa computer marks a significant achievement for LRZ, IQM, and their partners, setting the stage for further advancements in quantum computing technology.