IBM Quantum System Two Powers Japan’s Telecom Future
The IBM Quantum Heron processor, which powers the Quantum System Two, sets an industry benchmark. With a two-qubit error rate across a 100-qubit layered circuit measured at 3x10⁻³ and the best two-qubit error rate at 1x10⁻³, it delivers a tenfold improvement in quantum fidelity over its predecessor, the IBM Quantum Eagle.
Regarding speed, IBM Heron achieves 250,000 circuit layer operations per second (CLOPS), marking a significant increase from previous-generation processors.
The performance enables the execution of quantum circuits that can't be simulated using traditional computers alone.
Quantum-centric supercomputing: a global first
The IBM Quantum System Two’s physical integration with the Fugaku supercomputer establishes the world’s first quantum-centric supercomputing facility.
Linked at the fundamental instruction level via high-speed networks, the hybrid system allows IBM and RIKEN engineers to develop parallel workloads and ultra-low latency communication protocols.
“By combining Fugaku and the IBM Quantum System Two, RIKEN aims to lead Japan into a new era of high-performance computing.
“Our mission is to develop and demonstrate practical quantum-HPC hybrid workflows that can be explored by both the scientific community and industry. The connection of these two systems enables us to take critical steps toward realising this vision.”
The seamless integration enables algorithms to be split between quantum and classical systems, with each processing the tasks it handles most efficiently.
In the telecommunications sector, such parallelisation could transform real-time network traffic optimisation, predictive maintenance, spectrum management and secure mobile communications.
Backed by government and industry
Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) support the milestone project.
The “Development of Integrated Utilisation Technology for Quantum and Supercomputers” initiative ensures that Japan remains competitive in quantum R&D as part of its broader post-5G communications strategy.
With its strong reputation for cutting-edge research across disciplines such as physics, biology and engineering, RIKEN adds significant scientific expertise to the project.
More than 2,500 research papers from RIKEN are published annually, contributing to its global recognition as a leader in advanced scientific innovation.
A global expansion of IBM Quantum technology
The Kobe installation expands IBM’s global network of quantum computing systems, providing Japanese enterprises, research institutes and telecom operators with access to world-class quantum computing infrastructure.
Jay Gambetta, VP of IBM Quantum, states: “The future of computing is quantum-centric and with our partners at RIKEN, we are taking a big step forward to make this vision a reality.
“The new IBM Quantum System Two, powered by our latest Heron processor and connected to Fugaku, will allow scientists and engineers to push the limits of what is possible.”
As demand grows for hybrid computing models capable of addressing telecom-specific challenges, IBM’s global leadership in quantum and hybrid cloud technologies becomes increasingly critical.
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