Full Breakdown
Italy’s Neutral-Atom Quantum Computer and IQM Strengthen CINECA’s Infrastructure
6/12/2026, 11:48:59 AM
Inauguration of Italy’s First Neutral-Atom Quantum Computer and IQM’s Superconducting System
On 11 June 2026, CINECA in Bologna commissioned two quantum processors under the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking’s hybrid HPC-quantum network. Pasqal’s 140-qubit neutral-atom Orion unit, SOL, was coupled with the Leonardo pre-exascale supercomputer, while IQM’s 54-qubit superconducting Radiance system, NOX, was installed alongside it. Both QPUs are native resources in Leonardo’s scheduler, enabling hybrid workloads that combine quantum and classical processing.
European Hybrid HPC-Quantum Initiative
EuroHPC’s HPCQS pilot builds a federated hybrid computing infrastructure across Europe. Pasqal’s neutral-atom processors in France (Jade) and Germany (Ruby) are now joined by Italy’s SOL, meeting the 2025 European Quantum Strategy’s call for production-ready resources. IQM, already operating at four top-ten supercomputing centres, adds a superconducting system, diversifying Europe’s quantum technology base.
System Specifications
SOL is a 140-qubit neutral-atom QPU; NOX is a 54-qubit superconducting QPU, both integrated with Leonardo, a pre-exascale supercomputer ranked 10th on the Top500 list and co-financed by EuroHPC JU and Italy’s Ministry of University and Research.
Strategic Impact
The hybrid platform offers a testbed for materials-science, optimization and machine-learning tasks that benefit from quantum acceleration. Embedding quantum processors in Europe’s HPC system strengthens sovereignty, reduces reliance on outside technology, and supports the EU’s aim to lead in AI, HPC and quantum research.
Official Statements
CINECA’s quantum lead called the launch a milestone for Italy’s role in Europe’s computing ecosystem. Pasqal’s CEO noted the shift from research promise to operational infrastructure. EuroHPC JU’s director said the deployment reinforces Europe’s sovereign supercomputing ecosystem. IQM’s commercial chief described the system as “Production Quantum,” delivering real-world value. Italy’s research minister linked the investment to the strategy for advanced tools, and ICSC’s president highlighted the boost to sovereignty.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The inauguration of this quantum computer marks a major milestone for CINECA and ICSC and for Italy’s role in Europe’s advanced computing ecosystem,” — Sara Marzella, Responsible for Quantum Computing, CINECA
- “This inauguration is further proof of Pasqal’s ability to execute at scale and deliver quantum systems where they matter most,” — Wasiq Bokhari, CEO, Pasqal
- “ “Today’s inauguration shows how Europe continues to turn ambition into capability.” — Anders Jensen, Executive Director, EuroHPC JU
- “This significantly strengthens digital sovereignty and supports national competitiveness.” — Antonio Zoccoli, President, ICSC & INFN
Next Steps
The upcoming AI-focused LISA upgrade will enhance Leonardo, while EuroHPC JU plans further quantum node deployments under the HPCQS roadmap. Pasqal and IQM aim to scale qubits and expand their European footprint, solidifying a continent-wide hybrid ecosystem.
