Hybrid Quantum-HPC Supercomputing Platform Goes OnlineHybrid Quantum-HPC Supercomputing Platform Goes Online

A hybrid supercomputing platform that combines classical high-performance computing (HPC) capabilities with a quantum computer has come online in Japan.

Quantum computing company Quantinuum and research institute Riken have completed installation of Quantinuum’s Reimei processor at the Wako campus in Saitama, Japan.

Reimei, meaning “dawn” in Japanese, is based on Quantinuum’s 20 qubit H1 processor with additional features that support research into advanced applications and error correction.

Scientists plan to use Reimei in combination with Riken’s flagship 442 petaflop supercomputer Fugaku as a quantum-HPC hybrid platform to perform research computations beyond the capabilities of classical supercomputers. 

“Reimei’s high-fidelity qubits and all-to-all connectivity will significantly enhance the research possibilities of our quantum-HPC hybrid platform,” said Riken quantum-HPC hybrid platform division director Mitsuhisa Sato in the announcement.

“We are thrilled to explore new frontiers in scientific research on quantum HPC hybrid applications by using the Quantinuum system with our Fugaku.” 

Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) research and development agency sponsored the installation of Reimi to advance quantum-HPC research and foster Japan’s quantum computing ecosystem.

Related:SoftBank, Quantinuum Target Quantum-Enhanced AI Applications

Riken and Quantinuum intend to work on integrating the technologies into a fully optimized quantum-HPC hybrid platform and work with researchers to advance scientific discovery across various applications.

Quantinuum also plans to run workshops and tutorials with local suppliers to enhance the quantum supply chain and foster growth within the Japanese quantum computing ecosystem.

“This installation represents a pivotal moment for our global strategy, marking the first on-site deployment of our quantum technology outside the U.S.,” Quantinuum CEO Rajeeb Hazra said in the announcement.

“We are eager to collaborate with Riken exceptional researchers, whose expertise will be instrumental in driving unprecedented scientific breakthroughs.”