Japan connects quantum and classical in historic supercomputing first

Japan has unveiled the world’s most advanced quantum–classical hybrid computing system by integrating IBM’s latest 156-qubit Heron quantum processor with its flagship Fugaku supercomputer. This historic installation, located in Kobe and operated by Japan’s national research lab RIKEN, represents the first IBM Quantum System Two deployed outside the U.S. The Heron processor offers a tenfold improvement in quality and speed over its predecessor, enabling it to run quantum circuits beyond the reach of classical brute-force simulations. This fusion of quantum and classical computing marks a significant step toward “quantum-centric supercomputing,” where the complementary strengths of both paradigms are harnessed to solve complex problems. The direct, low-latency connection between Heron and Fugaku allows for instruction-level coordination, facilitating the development of practical quantum-classical hybrid algorithms. Researchers at RIKEN plan to apply this system primarily to challenges in chemistry and materials science, aiming to pioneer high-performance computing workflows that benefit both scientific research and industry