HUNTSVILLE — Davidson Technologies is working with California-based D-Wave Quantum to install a state of the art Advantage quantum computing system at Davidson’s headquarters in the Rocket City by 2025. The system will be only the second U.S.-based Advantage quantum computer in operation.
At this year’s Space and Missile Defense Symposium, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle stressed the “strategic significance” of having such technology so readily available for a company like Davidson.
“Huntsville is in a great spot to lead the charge in new tech like artificial intelligence and quantum computing, thanks to our strong ties to government, defense and technology,” Battle said Tuesday, the first day of the annual conference at the Von Braun Center. “By bringing the latest quantum computing system to our city, we’ll be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology in the region.”
Rep. Dale Strong, who represents the district where Davidson is based, touted the potential of the joint effort between the two corporations.
“Advancements in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing are critical to our national security industry and our service branches,” Strong (R-Monrovia) said. ?Through the Davidson and D-Wave partnership, we will be able to address the important needs of our military by using cutting edge technology and applications that are developed in the U.S.
“Alabama stands ready with world class research universities to help build the quantum ready workforce that is necessary for our military to address problems now and in the future.”
The entire state will benefit from Davidson having the system, according to Sen. Tommy Tuberville.
“I continually fight to ensure our military has the latest and greatest technologies to help them meet mission objectives,” Tuberville (R-Auburn) said. “Davidson hosting a D-Wave quantum computing system will position Alabama as a leader in developing quantum applications to solve national security problems.
“Space applications and optimized logistics for our troops are just a few of the problems that could benefit from quantum technologies.”
Leadership at both companies emphasized the importance of the soon to be installed system.
“Hosting the second U.S.-based Advantage quantum computer will give our government clients direct, secure access to quantum computing technology right here at our facility,” said Davidson President Dale Moore. “We are honored to play an important role in advancing the use of quantum technology in national security, as we support the vital mission of defending the U.S. and its allies, both domestically and internationally.”
Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave, echoed Moore’s sentiments and spoke highly of Davidson’s reputation.
“As Congress continues to task the Department of Defense with adopting quantum computing technologies to solve problems in the near-term, we believe this system will play an essential role for government agencies’ use case identification, application development, and workforce training,” he said.
“Davidson is well known for developing applications that use emerging technologies to safeguard the nation, and we are excited to engage with Davidson and the larger Alabama community to apply quantum technologies in support of national security efforts.”
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