IBM, Lockheed Martin team up to bring Switzerland its first 120-qubit quantum computer

Switzerland is set to get its first IBM quantum computer, with an IBM Quantum System Two planned for installation at the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS) in Lugano by the end of 2026.

IBM and Lockheed Martin are establishing a quantum innovation hub at ETH Zurich through an offset agreement with armasuisse, Switzerland’s Federal Office for Defence Procurement. The initiative is designed to give Swiss researchers, companies and startups direct access to advanced quantum computing hardware and expertise.

IBM will operate the Quantum System Two, which will be powered by the company’s Nighthawk processor. ETH Zurich will provide infrastructure, technical expertise and access for Swiss academia and industry, while also supporting education and workforce development.

The system is expected to give researchers a dedicated platform for developing quantum algorithms and testing applications that could eventually be used in areas such as chemistry, materials science, optimization and financial services.

Quantum hardware reaches Switzerland

The new facility could give Switzerland a stronger base for turning quantum research into practical applications. Organizations joining the innovation hub through ETH Zurich will also gain access to IBM’s wider fleet of quantum computers through the cloud.