Russia has introduced a new quantum computer prototype, signaling tangible progress in its long running effort to build advanced computing systems without relying on foreign technology. The prototype, developed by Russian research institutions, represents a working machine rather than a theoretical design, with engineers confirming successful early stage testing.
Researchers involved in the project said the system was built to address two persistent obstacles in quantum computing: qubit instability and scaling limitations. According to the development team, the prototype demonstrated improved control over quantum states during testing, allowing it to execute basic quantum operations with greater consistency than earlier domestic models.
“Reaching the 72-qubit mark on an atom-based platform confirms the systematic development of the domestic quantum project and our strong position in quantum research and the creation of quantum computer prototypes,” said Yekaterina Solntseva, Director of Quantum Technologies at Rosatom State Corporation.
Unlike headline grabbing announcements that focus primarily on qubit counts, the Russian prototype prioritizes operational reliability. Engineers described the system as a testbed designed to validate hardware behavior under real conditions, including temperature control, signal noise, and sustained operation.
The project is tied to Russia’s national quantum technology program, which aims to develop practical quantum computing, secure quantum communications, and sensing technologies by the end of the decade. Officials overseeing the program said the prototype is not intended for immediate commercial use but is meant to serve as a foundation for larger machines capable of handling more complex workloads.
“It is especially important that the scientists have taken another step toward progressively improving the reliability of operations.” Solntseva explained.
Global competition in quantum computing has intensified over the past year, with major breakthroughs reported in the United States, China, and Europe. While those efforts often rely on extensive private sector investment and international supply chains, Russian researchers have emphasized domestic sourcing and modular design. Analysts say this approach reflects both strategic independence goals and practical constraints imposed by restricted access to advanced chip manufacturing.
According to Vladimir Belokurov, Dean of the Physics Department at Moscow State University, not only leading university specialists, but also young scientists, graduate students, and undergraduates are participating in these experiments and in the development of the computer, so this work is involving the younger generation in one of Russia’s most important scientific projects.
These tests focused on simplified physical systems, with plans to expand into optimization problems and cryptographic research as the hardware matures.
