In order to bundle application-oriented competencies in quantum technology in Germany and to build an industrial base with partners from business as quickly as possible, the German Aerospace Center (DLR) receives from Federal Ministry of Economics740 million euros in the coming years. The aim is to build German, prototypical quantum computers with different architectures within four years. The DLR integrates companies, start-ups and other research institutions. Together they drive the development work on hardware and software as well as applications for quantum computers. The results are one of the core tasks of DLR: solving scientific, economic and security-related challenges.
Around 80 percent of the money will go to business partners. Among other things, industrial innovation centers for quantum technologies are being set up. DLR uses 20 percent of the funds for its own research and development work. The possibilities of quantum technologies should be conveyed across industries and applications. In order to develop innovations and new business areas, business and industry – especially SMEs and start-ups – are stimulated and mobilized.
Federal Minister of Economics Peter Altmaier emphasizes the enormous importance of quantum computing for Germany as a business location: “I am delighted that we have a strong partner in DLR who will promote quantum computing together with business. The involvement of companies and start-ups is central, because they can set decisive innovation impulses and always keep an eye on the implementation in specific products and applications. Our goal is for Germany to be at the forefront of both the development and the application of quantum technologies. “
“The decision in favor of DLR is based on our capabilities in the field of quantum technology. We also have extensive expertise in the management of demanding large-scale projects, ”emphasizes Prof. Anke Kaysser-Pyzalla, Chairwoman of the DLR Executive Board. “DLR has many years of experience and the necessary networks. The initiative led by DLR to develop the quantum computer and the innovation centers will lead to new companies being set up in Germany. At the same time, existing companies will increasingly relocate their activities to Germany. “
The DLR involves industrial partners, start-ups and research groups across Germany. The start-up scene in quantum technology is activated. Hamburg is expected to be established as innovation centers and Ulm as the main location .
“The DLR contributes its own research and development skills through its newly founded institutes in Ulm and Hanover ,” explains Prof. Hansjörg Dittus, Member of the Board of Directors for Space Research and Technology. “In addition, knowledge and skills are built up. This means that entire industries can benefit from quantum computing applications in the future. These include air, road and rail transport. Energy and network management can also be improved. “
Procedure for the realization
DLR will examine and implement various architectures. They are based on different approaches, such as ion traps, diamond-based approaches, quantum dots or Rydberg atoms. The development of German quantum computers ensures that the usage and patent rights achieved in Germany also remain with the partners from industry and research. The contracts awarded and financed by DLR strengthen industry, spin-offs and start-ups. The “DLR Quantum Computing Initiative” will also implement hybrid systems. These work in conjunction with conventional technologies and combine the advantages. Among other things, high-performance computers are to be upgraded with components from quantum computers and analog computers. In this way, for example, optimizations can be solved, for which the quantum computer is predestined. Conventional computers then process the result further.