Fujitsu & ANU partner to boost quantum computing in Australia

Fujitsu and the Australian National University (ANU) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance quantum computing capabilities within Australia.

The partnership aims to foster local innovation and talent development by providing industry professionals, researchers, academics, and students access to a state-of-the-art quantum research facility.

The agreement includes several key initiatives. Fujitsu will give ANU researchers and academics access to its quantum systems and simulators located in Japan. Additionally, there are plans to establish an on-site quantum computer at ANU, which will support local researchers and professionals in developing their expertise in the field.

"At Fujitsu, we are innovating for the future of computing. Our investment in quantum research, coupled with strategic collaborations including with ANU, puts us at the forefront of the global race to develop the world's first fault-tolerant quantum computer," said Graeme Beardsell, Fujitsu's EVP and Chief Executive Officer for the Asia Pacific. "This is about more than just technology; it's about unlocking the next wave of innovation."

The collaboration aligns with Australia's National Quantum Strategy, which aims to strengthen the country's quantum research and industry to compete globally. This long-term vision will see Fujitsu and ANU work together to leverage future opportunities and applications of quantum technologies for both local and global benefits.

Part of the collaboration involves the release of new quantum hardware. In collaboration with RIKEN, Fujitsu plans to release a 256-qubit quantum computer in March 2025 and a quantum computer with up to 1,000 qubits by fiscal year 2026, thereby ensuring that ANU remains at the cutting edge of quantum technology.

The partnership goes beyond just providing access to technology. ANU will also be responsible for developing teaching and training modules based on Fujitsu's quantum technologies. These modules aim to enhance the overall approach to quantum computing research and education in Australia.

Professor Lachlan Blackhall, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) at ANU, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. "This partnership with Fujitsu complements and builds on the ANU mission to further higher education on emerging technologies including quantum computing. It will help to foster the growth of a talented pool of quantum computing professionals in Australia," he stated.

Blackhall also highlighted the broader impact of the collaboration, noting that it would help in growing the nation's commitment to fundamental quantum physics, which is crucial for harnessing the potential of quantum research for real-world applications.

Fujitsu's portfolio in quantum computing is extensive. The company has plans for a hybrid quantum computing platform that combines a 64-qubit superconducting quantum computer with a quantum simulator. This platform aims to address the prevalent issue of quantum bit errors by using an AI-based computing workload broker that optimally combines computing resources and algorithms.

The collaboration also includes the development of new algorithms for applications in chemistry, financial systems, and drug discovery. Furthermore, Fujitsu has supplied Japan's national Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) with a gate-based superconducting quantum computer system designed to scale to hundreds of qubits.

The MoU between Fujitsu and ANU signifies a significant step forward in quantum computing research and education in Australia. By establishing a strong foundation for collaboration and innovation, the partnership aims to place Australia at the forefront of global advancements in quantum technology.