The National Quantum Office of Singapore, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, IQM Quantum Computers and Finland’s CSC - IT Center for Science have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly explore and promote quantum research and development.

The organizations aim to accelerate the development of quantum technology hardware components, algorithms and applications. They will also collaborate on enhancing high-performance computers with quantum computers, and Earth- and space-based quantum communication.

“Quantum-accelerated high-performance computing may enable completely new science,” said Kimmo Koski, managing director, CSC. “We need to efficiently merge quantum computers and supercomputers, a highly non-trivial task that requires the pooling of global know-how to be successful. We also aim to integrate several additional quantum resources into LUMI through new partnerships. The Singapore connection is a major step for us on the path towards both goals.”

The participants all have experience working with quantum technology. The deal sets the terms of international knowledge exchange that in turn support Finland and Singapore’s national strategic roadmaps for quantum technologies.

VTT has 30 years of research experience in the development and commercialization of quantum technology solutions and in May took delivery of Finland’s first quantum computer, the five-qubit Helmi.

“We are looking forward to exploring the opportunities this cooperation can offer to VTT relating to quantum hardware and software development. I also believe that the cooperation between our countries will eventually benefit the whole quantum industry,” said VTT executive vice president of digital technologies Erja Turunen. 

Singapore’s National Quantum Office is responsible for the development and execution of Singapore’s national quantum strategy to advance Singapore’s quantum technologies, talent and ecosystem development.

“The National Quantum Office’s collaboration with the Finnish quantum ecosystem is a tremendous opportunity to develop competitive and world-leading quantum technologies and nurture quantum talent,” said National Quantum Office executive director Ling Keok Tong “We look forward to pushing the frontiers of quantum technologies, and delivering impact for the ecosystem.”

IQM specializes in building quantum computers for supercomputing centers and research laboratories.

“This is a significant milestone for the quantum collaboration between two scientifically advanced nations and a recognition of our world-leading quantum expertise. This announcement provides IQM a launchpad for business development in Asia, to attract talent, and collaborate on algorithms and enabling technologies research”, said IQM COO and co-founder Juha Vartiainen.

CSC develops scientific computing solutions and in June inaugurated Europe’s most powerful supercomputer, the 375 petaflop LUMI.