Germany is two to three years behind in quantum computing

Leading experts in the field of quantum technologies draw a mixed conclusion on Germany's status in this future-oriented field. Cooperation between basic research and young companies functions very well in established regional ecosystems such as Munich, Stuttgart/Ulm, Jülich, and Braunschweig, emphasize the scientists in a position paper published by the electrical engineering and IT association VDE. This was in the run-up to the congress MikroSystemTechnik in Duisburg. Initial products for quantum sensing and IT security are already on the market. However, in international comparison, Germany is two to three years behind in quantum computing.

The greatest challenge, according to the analysis, is currently not primarily technological, but rather the hesitant demand and lack of knowledge for users in many industries. Furthermore, insiders assess the research funding, especially regarding coordination between the ministries involved, as not always coherent and targeted enough. Beyond the weaknesses in quantum computers, Germany is on par with the international leading edge in quantum simulation, quantum communication with initial experimental networks, and quantum sensing.

"Quantum technologies are currently making discernible progress," write the authors. But the path to successful, mass-marketable products is long: "We need staying power." Based on the status quo, the experts, who also include executives from corporations such as IBM, Infineon, Bosch, and Trumpf, derive seven impulses. These are intended to help secure competitiveness and establish Germany as a leading location for industrial applications in the quantum sector by 2026.

Call for a National Quantum Initiative

According to this, those responsible in politics, science, and business should develop a shared "moonshot" vision and technology roadmaps with measurable goals. It is important to strategically strengthen the regional quantum ecosystems. Publicly funded pilot lines must be operated with the involvement of industry, and the state should promote the market as an anchor customer and through research purchases. "This means, for example, that publicly funded high-tech infrastructures are also easily accessible to other projects according to fixed rules," explains Thomas Becks from the VDE. "This way, we can use investment funds efficiently."

Funding should be more focused, coherent, and thematically aligned with critical paths. A separation of hardware and software by departments should be avoided, as stated in the paper. Funding allocation must be based on measurable goals to adapt projects agilely or stop them without penalty in case of failure. In addition, incentives for established companies and intensified, financially increased startup funding are necessary.

Germany must score points in the global competition for excellent scientists and young talent through attractive offers and the reduction of bureaucratic hurdles, demand the experts. The most difficult challenge is acceptance. New event formats and financial support for initial applications in industry should stimulate demand and enable learning curves. Active support for standardization and regulation is also essential, especially when integrating quantum technologies into existing systems such as the Internet of Things or high-performance computing.

The authors propose establishing a national quantum initiative. This must involve all relevant disciplines and company sizes. Such a step could provide the necessary coordination and a roadmap.

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