IQM Quantum Computers has officially deployed its first quantum computer in the US at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
The system, known as Pathfinder, is now operational on the laboratory’s campus in Tennessee. It is ORNL’s first commercially purchased quantum computer and IQM’s first quantum system installed on US soil.
The new machine is based on IQM’s Radiance platform and features 20 qubits. Qubits are the basic units of information in quantum computing, similar to bits in conventional computers. Unlike traditional bits that store either a 0 or a 1, qubits can process multiple possibilities at the same time, allowing certain calculations to be performed differently.
Pathfinder has been installed inside one of the world’s most advanced computing environments, home to Frontier, widely recognized as the most powerful supercomputer available for open scientific research. By placing the quantum computer directly within this ecosystem, researchers aim to explore how quantum and classical computing systems can work together.
The system is connected to high-performance computing resources via the National Center for Computational Sciences Technology Integration Group’s testbed. This setup allows scientists to develop tools, software, and workflows that combine the strengths of both computing approaches, reinforcing the role hybrid systems may play in future scientific computing.
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Unlike many quantum services that are accessed through the cloud, Pathfinder is owned and operated directly by ORNL. Laboratory staff have full control over the system and the research conducted on it. This arrangement also allows the institution to retain ownership of any intellectual property created through its work.
IQM says direct ownership has become a key part of its deployment strategy. National laboratories, research institutions, and high-performance computing centers often prefer to manage their own computing infrastructure, and the company follows the same model for its quantum systems, giving customers complete access and control over their hardware.
Jan Goetz, CEO and co-founder of IQM, described the installation as an important milestone for the company. He said meaningful progress in quantum computing occurs when the technology operates in real-world computing environments, adding that Oak Ridge is one of the best places to test and develop those capabilities.
IQM Quantum Computer Delivers
Researchers at ORNL have already started integrating Pathfinder with existing computing resources. Travis Humble, Director of the Quantum Science Center at ORNL, said the system’s presence on campus has accelerated research efforts. Teams are now developing methods that combine quantum computing with traditional supercomputing resources.
The laboratory plans to use the system for research in several important fields, including materials science, chemistry, and artificial intelligence. Scientists hope the hybrid environment will help them better understand how quantum computers can support complex scientific workloads.
Quantum computing remains an emerging technology. Current systems are not designed to replace conventional supercomputers. Instead, researchers are exploring how quantum processors can complement traditional machines by solving specific types of problems more efficiently.
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The deployment also strengthens IQM’s position in the growing global quantum computing industry. The Finland-based company has sold 23 full-stack quantum systems worldwide. According to IQM, this gives it more on-premises quantum installations than any other manufacturer.
Its systems are already operating across Europe, Asia, and North America. Customers include universities, national laboratories, and major high-performance computing centers. These organizations are increasingly investing in quantum technologies as they prepare for future computing needs.
The ORNL installation comes as IQM expands its presence in the US, including a recently established Quantum Technology Center in Maryland’s Discovery District. The facility supports quantum education, research activities, and collaboration with high-performance computing providers.
IQM is also building local teams and expanding its operations across the American market. The company sees strong opportunities within federal agencies, research organizations, and advanced technology programs. The growing demand for quantum expertise is encouraging further investment in the region.
The deployment arrives during an important period for the company. IQM plans to become the first publicly listed European quantum computing company on a major US stock exchange. The listing is expected through a business combination with Real Asset Acquisition Corp. (Nasdaq: RAAQ), which is projected to close in mid-2026.
Several political leaders highlighted the project’s significance for Tennessee and the US. Senator Marsha Blackburn said the installation strengthens America’s position in quantum science and emerging technologies. She added that the partnership reflects Tennessee’s commitment to innovation and advanced research.
Senator Bill Hagerty also emphasized the growing importance of quantum technologies. He noted that developments in quantum science, energy systems, and economic growth are becoming connected. He described the project as another example of Tennessee’s role in advanced technology development.
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The Pathfinder deployment reflects a broader trend across the technology industry, as governments, research institutions, and private companies invest heavily in quantum computing infrastructure. Many believe the next generation of scientific discovery will rely on close collaboration between quantum systems and traditional supercomputers.
For ORNL, the new system provides a platform to test and develop that future, and for IQM, it establishes a direct presence in one of the world’s most important research markets.
