NQCC adds Quantum Motion’s silicon spin qubits to UK testbed program

The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) has added Quantum Motion’s silicon spin qubits to its UK testbed program, a key component of a £30 million investment made in partnership with Innovate UK. This initiative established seven prototype quantum computers, or “testbeds”, designed to rigorously evaluate emerging quantum technologies. All seven platforms are now deployed at the Harwell Campus, allowing providers to demonstrate and validate their systems in an independent environment. The NQCC is collaborating with colleagues from the Quantum Software Lab at the University of Edinburgh to test and evaluate the platforms, positioning the centre as a global leader in quantum technology evaluation. The programme in figures 550+ co-ordination meetings 33 contractor milestones were evaluated 120+ contractor staff involved 49 UKRI project team members NQCC Establishes Seven Quantum Computing Testbeds in the UK The culmination of a £30 million investment by the NQCC and Innovate UK saw all seven prototype quantum computers fully deployed at the Harwell Campus by the close of 2025, enabling rigorous, independent evaluation of diverse quantum architectures. This concentrated deployment strategy allows providers to demonstrate and validate their technologies within a trusted environment, accelerating the path toward fault-tolerant quantum computing. Each testbed represents a distinct qubit modality, presenting unique technical challenges for ongoing investigation through collaborations with the NQCC and its partners.Advertisement The initiative’s success is emphasised by the completion of all seven contracts to develop these testbeds, with six systems physically installed within NQCC facilities at Harwell, Oxfordshire. “The delivery of the seven testbeds represents a significant milestone for quantum computing in the UK, which has been enabled through considerable effort of the project teams alongside dedicated project oversight and facilities provision by the NQCC,” said Dr. Michael Cuthbert, Director of the NQCC. This coordinated effort signifies a substantial step forward in establishing a sovereign quantum computing ecosystem within the UK, providing a platform for both technological advancement and commercial development. Infleqtion’s neutral-atom quantum computing platform is also being highlighted through the NQCC’s testbed program, alongside those of other providers. This first phase of the program, focused on build and deployment, has now transitioned into a second phase dedicated to rigorous testing and evaluation, with the goal of building a robust evidence base for commercial viability. The delivery of the seven testbeds represents a significant milestone for quantum computing in the UK, which has been enabled through considerable effort of the project teams alongside dedicated project oversight and facilities provision by the NQCC.

Dr Michael Cuthbert, Director, NQCC £30 Million Investment Drives Prototype Quantum Computer Deployment This streamlined process, detailed in the NQCC’s recent report on the Quantum Computing Testbed Initiative (QCTI), highlights a focus on practical implementation alongside technological advancement. The £30 million investment, managed by the NQCC in partnership with Innovate UK, was structured as a two-phase program spanning 2023 to 2027. The initial phase, completed in 2025, concentrated on building and deploying the seven prototype systems, while the current phase prioritizes rigorous performance evaluation and use. The QCTI’s design demanded that hardware providers deliver fully operational prototype systems meeting specific criteria, and the program’s success is evidenced by the deployment of seven testbeds: Aegiq (photonics), Infleqtion UK (neutral atoms), Quantum Motion (spin qubits in silicon), QuEra UK (neutral atoms), (photonics), Ionics, a company (trapped ions), and Rigetti UK (superconducting circuits). Aegiq: Photonic system with a single-photon source Infleqtion UK: Neutral-atom array with 16×16 qubit sites Quantum Motion: Spin qubits in a manufacturable silicon platform QuEra UK: Neutral-atom system with a zoned architecture for computation ORCA Computing: Photonic system incorporating multiple light-source technologies Oxford Ionics, an IonQ company: Trapped-ion system designed for scalability, including support for in-field upgrades Rigetti UK: Superconducting system with 24 qubits, now upgraded to 36 qubits in a 6×6 lattice architecture The NQCC is truly world-leading in establishing a sovereign quantum computing ecosystem, and has provided a spotlight on Infleqtion’s neutral-atom quantum computing platform as well as those of the other testbed providers.

Infleqtion Diverse Architectures Selected for Fault-Tolerance Pathways The seven deployed quantum computing testbeds are not uniform in their approach. Each represents a distinct architectural pathway toward achieving fault-tolerant quantum computation, supporting the NQCC’s long-term goals for the UK. This work is not solely theoretical. The programme also involves running algorithms designed to solve simplified problems, allowing for a direct assessment of each architecture’s capabilities for specific computational tasks. “Having a UK-based quantum computer allows Rigetti to have their technology validated by NQCC researchers and enables Rigetti to further establish themselves in the UK quantum ecosystem, unlocking collaboration and business development opportunities,” the company reports. The NQCC intends to broaden access to these testbeds beyond its internal teams, initiating collaborative projects that will allow end-users from academia, industry and government to explore potential applications. These projects will be managed through the SparQ programme, using a direct approach to solutions delivery developed by the NQCC. From QuEra’s perspective, the outlook is strong; the company now has a growing UK team, a dedicated facility at Harwell, and an active follow-on consortium programme. The programme’s ultimate aim is to pinpoint pathways to verifiable quantum advantage for each modality. Having a UK-based quantum computer allows Rigetti to have their technology validated by NQCC researchers and enables Rigetti to further establish themselves in the UK quantum ecosystem, unlocking collaboration and business development opportunities. Rigetti QCTI Phase 1 Leverages Innovate UK’s SBRI Funding The National Quantum Computing Centre’s (NQCC) establishment of seven prototype quantum computers received £30 million in funding delivered through Innovate UK’s Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI). This funding mechanism positioned the NQCC as a lead customer, guiding testbed providers from initial proposal to system delivery, and demanding specific criteria for each platform. These included stable operation, a documented software environment for algorithm execution, and guaranteed availability to the NQCC for at least two years following project completion for testing and application development. The NQCC’s role extended beyond financial support, actively challenging providers throughout the process, ensuring systems met defined standards for stability and characterization. This approach differs from typical procurement, emphasizing a collaborative partnership to accelerate quantum computing maturity within the UK. The physical delivery of our system required minimal infrastructure. Assembled units in 19-inch racks were delivered to NQCC and deployed on-premises without the need for any exotic or expensive environmental requirements. Aegiq NQCC Acts as “Alpha Customer” for Testbed Development The NQCC’s approach to establishing the UK quantum testbeds extended beyond simple procurement, functioning as an “alpha customer” for hardware suppliers through funding from Innovate UK’s Small Business Research Initiative. This role proved attractive to international companies like QuEra, which responded by establishing a UK office and development facility at the Harwell Campus, alongside expansions by Rigetti and Infleqtion. The NQCC’s willingness to co-develop capabilities and focus on identifying socially beneficial applications resonated with testbed providers, supporting a collaborative environment. The initiative has drawn significant national and international attention, highlighting the NQCC’s early thought leadership in this space. It has also attracted substantial inward investment into the UK’s quantum ecosystem. Companies taking part in the programme have secured significant funding from private investors, totalling around $715 m in 2025, while Ionics was acquired for more than $1 bn.

Quantum Testbeds Attract $715M Investment & Acquisition This framework, designed before the completion of Phase 1, will allow for rigorous performance assessment of each testbed system, moving beyond isolated demonstrations to verifiable metrics. The NQCC’s facilities at Harwell Campus provided not only physical space but also a controlled environment important for consistent testing and benchmarking, a benefit highlighted by providers deploying systems outside their own premises for the first time. Phase 2 of the Quantum Computing Testbed Initiative builds on this foundation, with the main work scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2027. Beyond technical validation, the programme encouraged a durable UK presence within the quantum ecosystem, facilitating collaboration between academic institutions, national laboratories, software developers and component suppliers. This engagement extended to benchmarking exercises, use case development and integration with a broader national network of quantum testbeds, solidifying the UK’s position in the field. This partnership focuses on characterization, benchmarking and the implementation of quantum algorithms to assess suitability for application development. Specifically, the NQCC and QSL are jointly conducting systems-level specification verification and providing independent confirmation of performance. This project provided the opportunity and impetus to fully optimise a device for use by external stakeholders, and it was the key driver for the development of a software stack that could support circuit-based execution.

Quantum Motion Harwell Campus Centralizes National Quantum Technology Evaluation This concentration of resources followed the successful deployment of seven prototype quantum computers, or “testbeds”, each representing a distinct technological approach to quantum computation. These platforms, from Aegiq (photonics) to Rigetti UK (superconducting circuits), are now operational within a single national laboratory, positioning the NQCC as a global leader in independent quantum technology assessment. This role extended beyond simple procurement; the NQCC’s technical expertise was consistently cited as a key strength by the participating companies, alongside its ability to connect technology providers with potential end-users. The co-location of these companies on the Harwell Campus supported a collaborative environment and broadened access to a skilled workforce, creating a sense of community within the UK’s quantum ecosystem. Beyond the technical validation of each platform, the initiative facilitated partnerships with industry leaders like Riverlane, offering overseas companies a valuable entry point into the UK’s quantum landscape. According to the report, the NQCC’s approach was seen as supportive, focused on developing the capabilities of the machines while identifying areas for improvement. This strategy not only advanced the technology but also strengthened the UK’s position within the rapidly evolving global quantum computing arena. From QuEra’s perspective, the outlook is strong. The company now has a growing UK team, a dedicated Harwell facility, an advanced testbed, and an active follow-on consortium programme. QuEra Testbed Programme Supports UK Quantum Supply Chains & Jobs Follow-on funding stemming from the testbed programme has reached a total of £4.6 million, awarded as Quantum Mission Pilot grants and supporting collaborative projects that extend beyond the initial deployment phase. This financial commitment demonstrates a sustained investment in the UK’s quantum capabilities, building on the infrastructure established at the Harwell Campus. Several providers used their participation to secure these grants, indicating the programme’s success in supporting innovation and attracting further investment into the nascent industry. The NQCC’s oversight and facilities provision were considerable factors in enabling this milestone, according to Dr. Michael Cuthbert, Director of the NQCC. The programme’s impact extends beyond simply validating technology. It has actively cultivated a stronger domestic supply chain for quantum components and subsystems. Companies involved used the testbed framework to de-risk development pathways and drive internal innovation, directly supporting the NQCC’s broader mission to accelerate quantum computing advancement within the UK. Now fully operational in the test and exploitation phase, the ORCA testbed is enabling deeper and broader exploration of the application landscape, building a robust ladder of evidence toward demonstrating commercial value from photonic quantum computing. ORCA QCTI Informs UK’s National Quantum Mission 1 Initiatives The programme’s impact extends to securing £4. 6 million in follow-on funding for collaborative projects, demonstrating a clear pathway from initial validation to sustained research and development. This financial boost supports ongoing work and encourages a stronger domestic quantum ecosystem, according to the NQCC’s Phase 1 report. The NQCC simultaneously established brand new and newly refurbished lab spaces at its premises, offering dedicated facilities to host and operate the testbeds. This dual role, both evaluator and host, positioned the NQCC as a critical partner in the initiative, facilitating a collaborative approach to quantum computing development. Michael Cuthbert, Director of the NQCC. Looking forward, the report highlights the need for talent development that encompasses both technical expertise and leadership skills, suggesting a dedicated development programme to address this gap. Mapping the quantum computing supply chain is also identified as important for establishing a national capability in key enabling technologies and identifying growth opportunities for UK companies. “The testbed programme offers an opportunity to identify the critical components and services needed to support quantum computing,” the report notes, emphasizing the importance of a robust and resilient supply chain for long-term success. The NQCC’s work, therefore, extends beyond technological validation to encompass the broader ecosystem necessary for a thriving quantum industry. Through the testbed programme we have established thriving partnerships across the UK quantum ecosystem, sharing our knowledge with partners to accelerate the adoption of quantum computing. Infleqtion Source: https://www.nqcc.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/NQCC_Quantum-Computing-Testbed-Initiative_Phase-1-report.pdf More like thisQuantum AlgorithmsFewer qubits needed for quantum apps thanks to Xanadu’s workQuantum Error CorrectionNVIDIA’s Ising Decoding cuts quantum error correction time on AWSQuantum Computing NewsRudolfovo hosts Slovenia’s second quantum computing forumQuantum HardwareNational Physical Laboratory’s UK lab gets £230,000 for quantum ion trapsStay currentSee today’s quantum computing news on Quantum Zeitgeist for the latest breakthroughs in qubits, hardware, algorithms, and industry deals. Tags: