IBM and Yonsei University announced the deployment of the new 'Quantum NightHawk r2' processor. It is installed in the IBM Quantum System One at the university's South Korea campus. Yonsei is the first IBM Quantum Network partner to operate the advanced NightHawk processor at its own facility. The system previously ran on the 127-qubit 'Eagle' processor. The 'Eagle' processor was first installed in 2024.
The NightHawk processor features 120 qubits. It boosts performance by increasing quantum circuit throughput by 25 times compared to its predecessor. This upgrade is expected to accelerate research in drug discovery, new materials, and biotechnology. It aims to reduce the time and cost of solving complex problems. The university plans to leverage the enhanced capabilities for research, education, and industry collaboration.