Denmark partners with Microsoft to create the most powerful quantum computer in the world.

      Denmark is set to make a significant move in the global quantum competition with plans to create the most powerful quantum computer in the world. Supported by €80 million from EIFO (Denmark's export and investment fund) and the Novo Nordisk Foundation, the new project—called QuNorth—aims to establish the first “Level 2” quantum system in the Nordic region.

      Microsoft and Atom Computing, based in California, will provide the system named Magne, which is inspired by Thor's mythological son. Microsoft will supply its Azure Quantum software stack, while Atom will offer hardware utilizing its “neutral atom” design.

      Magne is expected to feature around 50 logical qubits and over 1,200 physical qubits, positioning it as a strong contender for the most advanced quantum computer ever developed. Atom Computing currently holds the record for the highest number of physical qubits in a single system at 1,180, while rival company Quantinuum leads in logical qubits with a record of 50. Up to now, no one has achieved both milestones in a single machine, but that could soon change.

      Why are logical qubits important?

      To grasp the importance of these plans, here's a brief overview of quantum mechanics. A qubit is the fundamental unit of information in a quantum computer, akin to a regular bit in classical computing, but with quantum characteristics that enable it to exist in multiple states simultaneously. Nevertheless, qubits are highly fragile and susceptible to errors. To address this, quantum computers utilize logical qubits, which are error-corrected “virtual” qubits created by combining several physical qubits. Their role is to enhance the stability and reliability of quantum calculations.

      Increasing the number of efficiently operating logical qubits is a defining characteristic of Level 2 machines, which incorporate built-in error correction and are viewed as a crucial step towards achieving quantum advantage. This is the stage at which quantum computers can provide practical benefits over classical computers in solving particular real-world issues.

      Although quantum computing is still in its early stages, advocates believe it could transform areas such as drug development and climate modeling by enabling much faster and more detailed calculations and simulations compared to classical systems. However, Europe is often perceived as trailing behind the United States and China in the quantum race.

      Danish officials seem eager to alter that perception. “Quantum technology holds immense potential, and Denmark and the EU must capitalize on this opportunity,” stated Morten Bødskov, Denmark’s minister for business. “With our investment in the world’s most powerful quantum computer, we are taking a significant step in the global quantum competition.”

      Construction for Magne is anticipated to commence in autumn 2025, with the computer scheduled to initiate operations around late 2026 or early 2027, provided everything proceeds as planned. QuNorth is currently in the process of selecting a CEO to manage the project. Initially, the initiative will staff a team of about 10 members, with a full launch and academic program expected in late next year. The computer will be located in Copenhagen and will be fully Danish-owned, with equal ownership shared between the two founding organizations.