IBM and Lockheed Martin launch quantum hub at ETH Zurich

IBM (NYSE: IBM) and Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) have established a quantum innovation hub at ETH Zurich through an offset agreement with armasuisse, Switzerland's Federal Office for Defence Procurement.

The hub will host Switzerland's first IBM Quantum System Two at the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS) in Lugano, operated by IBM and powered by the company's IBM Quantum Nighthawk processor. Deployment is expected by the end of 2026.

ETH Zurich will provide access to the quantum system for Swiss industries, startups, and academic institutions. Organizations joining the hub will also have immediate access to IBM's cloud-based fleet of quantum computers. Targeted research areas include chemistry, materials science, optimization, and financial services.

As part of the collaboration, IBM and Lockheed Martin plan two joint development projects: one exploring quantum sensing applications for navigation, and another focused on improving additive manufacturing of metallic alloys.

"This project extends the strategic relationship between Lockheed Martin and IBM in quantum and AI while positioning Switzerland as a leader in these critical, cutting-edge fields," said Dr. Craig Martell, Lockheed Martin vice president and chief technology officer.

Alessandro Curioni, vice president of Algorithms and Applications at IBM Research and director of the Zurich Research Laboratory, said the initiative will put "world-class quantum hardware, software and expertise directly into the hands of Switzerland's thriving academic institutions and industries."

ETH Zurich President Joël Mesot said Switzerland will gain access to research infrastructure that will advance exploration of quantum technology and support workforce education.

The hub also builds on a previously announced 10-year collaboration between IBM and ETH Zurich focused on foundational algorithmic research. Workforce development efforts will include access to the IBM Quantum Network and IBM Quantum Platform, offering coursework, certifications, workshops, hackathons, and conferences.

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