Rigetti Computing Receives $8.4 Million Order for 108-Qubit Quantum Computer from India’s C-DAC
India Takes a Giant Leap in Quantum Computing with Rigetti's 108-Qubit System
In a significant move towards establishing a sovereign quantum computing capability, India's Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) has placed an $8.4 million order with Rigetti Computing for a 108-qubit quantum computer. This cutting-edge system, set to be deployed in the second half of 2026, marks a crucial step in India's efforts to integrate quantum hardware into its national supercomputing infrastructure.
A Modular Approach to Scaling Quantum Computing
Rigetti's 108-qubit system is based on the company's proprietary chiplet-based architecture, which utilizes superconducting qubits. This innovative design approach is central to Rigetti's scaling strategy, allowing the company to tile multiple smaller chips together to achieve higher qubit counts necessary for future fault-tolerant systems. By leveraging this modular design, Rigetti can efficiently scale its quantum computing capabilities, making it an attractive solution for organizations seeking to harness the power of quantum computing.
On-Premises Deployment for Hands-On Innovation
C-DAC's decision to deploy the 108-qubit system on-premises at its facility in Bengaluru is a deliberate choice to facilitate hands-on innovation and exploration. By having the system installed on-site, researchers and developers can work closely with the hardware, experimenting with various applications and exploring the development of hybrid classical-quantum supercomputing environments. This approach will enable C-DAC to accelerate the development of quantum computing capabilities and create a national quantum computing reference facility.
A Strategic Partnership for a Hybrid HPC-Quantum Mission
The procurement of the 108-qubit system builds upon a strategic partnership established in September 2025 between Rigetti and C-DAC. The partnership aims to explore co-developed hybrid systems for government laboratories and academic researchers, aligning with C-DAC's broader Hybrid HPC-Quantum Mission. This mission focuses on creating a national quantum computing reference facility and developing a full-stack software and middleware layer, enabling the seamless integration of quantum computing into existing high-performance computing (HPC) environments.
A Growing Trend in National Quantum Capabilities
The acquisition of the 108-qubit system by C-DAC highlights a growing international trend of national governments prioritizing sovereign, on-premises quantum capabilities to secure their digital infrastructure and accelerate scientific discovery in domains such as materials science and optimization. As quantum computing continues to advance, nations are recognizing the importance of developing their own quantum computing capabilities to remain competitive and drive innovation.
Implications and Future Directions
The deployment of the 108-qubit system by C-DAC will have significant implications for India's quantum computing landscape. It will enable researchers and developers to explore various applications of quantum computing, from materials science to optimization, and accelerate the development of hybrid classical-quantum supercomputing environments. As India continues to invest in its quantum computing capabilities, it is likely to become a leader in the field, driving innovation and economic growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the $8.4 million order placed by C-DAC with Rigetti Computing for a 108-qubit quantum computer marks a significant step in India's efforts to establish a sovereign quantum computing capability. This cutting-edge system, set to be deployed in the second half of 2026, will enable researchers and developers to explore various applications of quantum computing and accelerate the development of hybrid classical-quantum supercomputing environments. As India continues to invest in its quantum computing capabilities, it is likely to become a leader in the field, driving innovation and economic growth.
