France Taps Quantum Computing for Aerospace Design

Quantum computing company Alice & Bob and aerospace company Thales are developing advanced quantum algorithms to design next-generation aerospace equipment.

The collaboration, backed by a $2.9 million investment under the French government's France 2030 initiative, aims to prepare for the next generation of fault-tolerant quantum computers (FTQCs).

The three-year project aims to assess whether FTQCs could accelerate electromagnetic simulations, which are crucial in the design and optimization of airborne equipment, potentially cutting development times.

Fault-tolerant quantum computers are considered the next evolutionary step in computing, overcoming the noise and errors seen in earlier quantum models. According to the government's strategic focus, developing mature FTQC systems supports the country’s goal of remaining at the forefront of quantum technology.

Scaling for Industrial Use

Inria, a French national research institute, plans to contribute programming and compilation tools, which Alice & Bob would adapt and implement for its FTQC quantum calculator demonstrators. Thales will define the use cases, benchmark the algorithms and test their performance on aerospace applications.

The project has an additional goal of estimating the number of qubits required to scale the technology for industrial use by testing these algorithms on real-world systems. This would provide a clear roadmap for when quantum computing can begin to deliver transformative benefits to the aerospace sector.

Related:Hybrid Quantum System Achieves Aircraft Simulation Breakthrough

“The pursuit of this project demonstrates our commitment to making France a world leader in quantum computing,” said Alice & Bob CEO Théau Peronnin.

“By sponsoring the development of fault-tolerant quantum computers with high-quality qubits, France will position itself to reap the first fruits of quantum tech.” 

Thales chief technology officer Bernhard Quendt added: “This cooperation builds on the complementary expertise of Alice & Bob and Thales. Our combined expertise will enable technological advancements in aerospace.”

The project falls under the i-Démo Régions program, part of the France 2030 initiative that supports collaborative research and development projects to help develop innovation in different French regions.