IonQ, a trailblazer in quantum computing and networking, has announced the successful deployment of its cutting-edge quantum computer, IonQ Forte Enterprise, at its first European Innovation Center, located at the uptownBasel campus in Arlesheim, Switzerland. This significant milestone was achieved in collaboration with QuantumBasel and marks IonQ’s first data center-ready quantum computer delivered outside the United States. It is also the first commercial quantum system in Switzerland, bringing quantum computing capabilities to a region poised for breakthroughs in diverse fields.
Forte Enterprise, now fully operational, is already providing compute services while performing at an exceptional algorithmic qubit count of #AQ36. This is a substantial leap from the previously anticipated #AQ35, underscoring IonQ’s commitment to surpassing expectations. The #AQ36 milestone means that the system can explore over 68 billion possibilities simultaneously, doubling the computational space with each added AQ. This advancement in quantum performance opens the door to more powerful algorithms and applications across a wide range of industries, including logistics, finance, pharmaceuticals, chemistry, and artificial intelligence.
Pushing the Boundaries of Quantum Computing
Peter Chapman, CEO and President of IonQ, highlighted the company’s dedication to global quantum adoption through cutting-edge technology and operational excellence. He said, “The successful commissioning of Forte Enterprise in Europe – on schedule and at a performance level exceeding our initial expectations – demonstrates IonQ’s commitment to leading the charge in quantum computing. Achieving #AQ36 is a crucial milestone that will drive advancements across various industries and enable new, transformative applications.”
Damir Bogdan, CEO of QuantumBasel, echoed Chapman’s enthusiasm, emphasizing how the Forte Enterprise system will accelerate the development of quantum applications. “Offering the state-of-the-art Forte Enterprise quantum computing platform to our ecosystem will accelerate quantum innovation in multiple fields, positioning uptownBasel as a leader in driving breakthroughs that address real-world challenges.”
IonQ’s Forte Enterprise is optimized for data center environments, with a rack-mounted form factor, low energy consumption, and minimal environmental isolation requirements, making it ideally suited for deployment in commercial and research settings. This system represents the culmination of years of engineering excellence and innovation, showcasing IonQ’s ability to bring production-ready quantum systems to the global market.
A Collaborative Achievement
The commissioning of the Forte Enterprise system reflects the collaborative efforts of teams across IonQ and QuantumBasel, working in tandem to bring this groundbreaking system to life. Dr. Dave Mehuys, VP of Production Engineering at IonQ, shared that this milestone was made possible through efficient alignment between the system’s build process and the datacenter’s construction. IonQ’s manufacturing and production teams, leveraging decades of expertise, delivered the system ahead of schedule, marking a significant achievement in the quantum computing field.
“IonQ’s ability to bring Forte Enterprise online faster than expected is a testament to the dedication and ingenuity of our teams,” said Dr. Mehuys. “This milestone represents more than just the system itself; it reflects our capacity to execute on our mission to revolutionize quantum computing globally.”
Redefining the Future of Quantum Computing
With the successful deployment of #AQ36, IonQ continues to push the boundaries of quantum computing performance. The capabilities of Forte Enterprise extend far beyond previous systems, enabling powerful advancements in areas such as quantum chemistry, machine learning, and data optimization. This record-breaking achievement sets the stage for future innovations in quantum research, propelling IonQ to the forefront of the quantum computing revolution.
Dr. Dean Kassmann, Senior Vice President of Engineering and Technology at IonQ, spoke on the broader implications of this milestone, stating, “Achieving #AQ36 is a major leap forward in quantum performance, and it reflects IonQ’s growing ability to deliver on our mission. As quantum computing becomes more accessible and impactful, we’re opening doors to real-world applications that will reshape industries around the world.
A Quantum Leap for Europe and Beyond
The opening of IonQ’s first European Innovation Center in Switzerland serves as a strategic move to bolster the company’s global presence and support its growing European customer base. The partnership with QuantumBasel enables direct access to the #AQ36 Forte Enterprise system for a broad ecosystem that includes research institutions, enterprises, startups, and universities.
IonQ has established a global data center network with locations in Washington, D.C., Seattle, and now Basel, Switzerland. This expansion reinforces the company’s position as a leader in quantum technology and showcases its commitment to delivering high-performance systems worldwide.
As QuantumBasel and IonQ continue their collaboration, the potential for groundbreaking quantum research and applications grows exponentially. With this partnership, IonQ is well-positioned to lead the quantum revolution, transforming industries and providing solutions to complex challenges. For more information about IonQ’s latest developments and innovations, visit www.ionq.com.
