Ostrava Launches the First Czech Quantum Computer
The first Czech quantum computer, launched at the Vysoká škola báňská – Technical University of Ostrava. Photo: VŠB-TUO

Ostrava Launches the First Czech Quantum Computer

Oct 10, 2025
Major milestone in Czech and European science was reached in Ostrava. The country’s first quantum computer, named VLQ, was officially launched at VSB – Technical University of Ostrava in the presence of leading Czech and European representatives. Installed at the IT4Innovations National Supercomputing Center, VLQ is among the first quantum computers in Europe and represents a significant leap forward in advanced computing.
Ostrava Launches the First Czech Quantum Computer
The first Czech quantum computer, launched at the Vysoká škola báňská – Technical University of Ostrava. Photo: VŠB-TUO

A European Collaboration for a European Future
VLQ is part of LUMI-Q, a pan-European consortium made up of 13 partners from eight countries. The system is co-funded by the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking (JU), with the goal of strengthening Europe’s quantum and high-performance computing capabilities. The VLQ will serve a broad community—from universities and research institutions to industry and public sector organizations across Europe.
"This is not only a milestone for the university but also for Ostrava. The city will now be recognized as the home of the first Czech quantum computer," said Igor Ivan, Rector of VSB – Technical University of Ostrava.

Advanced Capabilities with European Reach
VLQ opens the door to groundbreaking research and innovation. Its potential applications span a wide range of fields, including:
•    Quantum machine learning
•    Drug and vaccine development
•    Material design
•    Traffic and logistics optimization
•    Finance
•    Energy forecasting
•    Cybersecurity and defense
As Vít Vondrák, Director of IT4Innovations, explained: "VLQ will be accessible through the EuroHPC JU infrastructure, supporting innovation across Europe." The computer is directly connected to the Ostrava-based Karolina supercomputer, enabling hybrid classical-quantum computing.

A Technological Marvel
VLQ, supplied by IQM Quantum Computers, features:
•    24 superconducting qubits in a star-shaped topology, enabling highly efficient quantum operations.
•    A specialized cryostat that maintains the computer at just 0.01 Kelvin above absolute zero, colder than outer space.
•    Despite its extreme cooling requirements, the quantum chip itself consumes very little energy—only a few kilowatts.
The total cost of the project was approximately €5 million (CZK 125 million), jointly funded by EuroHPC JU and the LUMI-Q consortium.

Symbolism and Future Vision
The name VLQ reflects:
•    V – VSB – Technical University of Ostrava (location),
•    L – LUMI-Q consortium,
•    Q – Quantum computing.
It also nods to the wolf, the symbol of the LUMI supercomputer, representing power, intelligence, and cooperation.
According to Anders Jensen, Executive Director of EuroHPC JU:
"With VLQ, Europe takes another decisive step toward building a world-class quantum ecosystem. By combining quantum technologies with our powerful supercomputers, we’re equipping European researchers with tools to explore solutions that were once out of reach."

A Strategic Hub in the Heart of Europe
The IT4Innovations National Supercomputing Center has been a leader in high-performance computing since 2013. It currently operates the Czech Republic’s two most powerful supercomputers—Barbora and Karolina—and plays a key role in European digital infrastructure as part of e-INFRA CZ.
The installation of VLQ further solidifies Ostrava’s position as a hub for cutting-edge research and innovation. For more information, visit www.it4i.cz.

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