CAMBRIDGE, United States — In a major step toward scalable quantum computing, Atlantic Quantum has been named as a Stage A performer in the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI). This prestigious program aims to rigorously verify and validate quantum computing approaches for utility-scale operation by 2033.

Through this program, Atlantic Quantum will leverage industry-leading expertise in quantum hardware, error correction, and quantum algorithms. The QBI initiative will provide independent verification of the team’s approach, ensuring transparency and credibility in the development of scalable, fault-tolerant quantum processors designed to address real-world use cases.

The complete utility-scale quantum computing (USQC) system will be based on Atlantic Quantum’s superconducting fluxonium-based quantum processors, with co-located cryoelectronic controls. Fluxonium qubits offer low error rates through intrinsic noise protection. Furthermore, their low operating frequency enables a low-cost, simplified control architecture, making them a promising platform for fault-tolerant quantum computing. The quantum computing stack will be supplemented by software and error correction layers provided by industry-leading partners — allowing the company to achieve large-scale fault tolerance while minimizing overhead from control electronics and readout. The project is led by Drs. Youngkyu Sung (CSO & Co-Founder at Atlantic Quantum, Principal Investigator) and Tim Menke (COO & Co-Founder at Atlantic Quantum).

“Scaling quantum computing to utility levels requires a holistic approach that optimizes both qubits and control infrastructure. With QBI, we have an opportunity to demonstrate that fluxonium qubits, paired with cryoelectronic control, can deliver the performance and scalability needed for real-world quantum applications.”
— Bharath Kannan, CEO & Co-Founder, Atlantic Quantum

The QBI program is structured in three stages, with Stage A focusing on the feasibility of each performer’s concept for a utility-scale quantum computer. Subsequent stages are designed to support prototype development, risk mitigation, and USQC system construction. QBI builds upon DARPA’s previous efforts in quantum computing, including the Underexplored Systems for Utility-Scale Quantum Computing (US2QC) program. By fostering collaboration between government, academia, and industry leaders, QBI aims to separate hype from reality and identify viable paths toward utility-scale quantum computing.

As QBI progresses, Atlantic Quantum looks forward to sharing key learnings and milestones, driving the quantum industry closer to practical, real-world applications.