By: Suman Sharma

Israel’s first domestically built quantum computer, utilising advanced superconducting technology, is now operational. The 20-qubit quantum computer was developed under the leadership of the Israel Innovation Authority, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Hebrew University, and the university’s technology transfer company, Yissum. This collaboration established a superconductor-based quantum computer infrastructure alongside a robust development and integration environment. These advancements mark a strategic knowledge foundation for Israel, supporting both defence and civilian applications.
The global race for “quantum supremacy” has accelerated in recent years with groundbreaking discoveries in the field. Now, Israel is among the leading nations building quantum infrastructures and computers that promise to revolutionize computing across research, defence, industry, and more. IAI has invested substantial resources into its quantum efforts, establishing itself as a major player in the field with the unveiling of Israel’s first blue-and-white quantum computer. Quantum QHIPU’s quantum computer lab will focus on design, simulation, integration, and the adaptation of practical applications for the superconducting quantum computer. This work includes collaborations with companies and research institutes globally, positioning Israel at the forefront of quantum computing. The tight coordination among government, academia, and industry provides a significant edge over international competitors and strengthens Israel’s position as a leader in quantum technology.
Israel is one among the 15 countries in the world which are in the race to master the quantum computing technology. A quantum chip is an advanced processor capable of solving problems that are beyond the reach of even the most powerful supercomputers. Google recently announced testing their state-of-the-art quantum chip, named Willow. This chip can tackle highly complex problems in just five minutes, significantly outperforming traditional supercomputers.
Quantum computers are not intended for everyday use but are designed to address intricate challenges in fields such as medicine, enabling the rapid design of new drugs, or meteorology, allowing for highly accurate weather predictions. They also have the potential to revolutionise artificial intelligence and develop groundbreaking technologies previously deemed unimaginable.
The United States and China are in a race to lead the quantum computing revolution. China has allocated US$ 15 billion to quantum research, while India has invested approximately US$ 500 million. However, quantum chips are fragile and require extremely cold environments to operate. Their ability to break encryption codes poses significant security risks.
Google’s Willow chip provides a glimpse into the transformative potential of quantum computing and the challenges it brings, especially in the realm of cybersecurity.

Expanding IAI’s Presence in India marks deepening India-Israel Defence Cooperation
IAI’s recent unveiling of HELA, its latest cutting-edge facility in Hyderabad, marks an additional significant milestone in IAI’s commitment to reinforcing India’s defence infrastructure under its Make in India initiative. The new subsidiary further demonstrates IAI’s dedication to fostering local capabilities and advancing self-reliance within the critical domain of radar technologies.
The Hyderabad facility, staffed by over 45 highly trained professionals and supported by more than 80 field engineers, specialises in maintaining and repairing radar modules and sub-systems, such as power systems, cooling systems, IT integration, radar testing, and calibration. The facility’s staff are Indian nationals, showcasing HELA’s commitment to nurturing local talent and enhancing their expertise. The facility will serve over 100 local talents in the radio frequency and microelectronics areas, supporting India’s tri-services most advanced radar system on land, in the air and at sea.
Founded in 2004, HELA Systems has established itself as a premier provider of high-end systems. Over the past two decades, the company has delivered comprehensive support for radar systems, including top-tier field services and advanced D-level repair capabilities for various radar units.
Dror Bar, CEO of ELTA Systems, Vice President of IAI, said, “As HELA Systems continues to expand its footprint in India, this new Hyderabad facility exemplifies our commitment to providing exceptional in-country support for advanced radar systems across India’s defence sectors. By enabling full product support, maintenance, and repair services locally, HELA offers unmatched efficiency in turnaround time, quality, and cost-effectiveness directly in Indian rupees. Our skilled teams and sophisticated control systems ensure rapid response and top-tier service for the Indian defence forces, aligning with India’s vision of self-reliance in critical defence technology.”
“This facility represents a major milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance in defence technology. With this launch, we demonstrate our dedication to supporting India’s strategic needs through world-class radar solutions, empowering local professionals and fostering innovation” added Yaniv Mizrahi, CEO, HELA Systems.
IAI is a world leader in aerospace and defence, innovating and delivering state-of-the-art technologies in space, air, land, naval, cyber and homeland security for defence and commercial markets.
IAI also recently launched its NeuSPHERE Innovation Acceleration Program in India. Rooted in IAI’s commitment to promoting technological leadership, the NeuSPHERE Program provides a platform for Indian deep-tech startups to co-create cutting-edge innovation, accelerate their growth and expand globally.
IAI’s NeuSPHERE Innovation Acceleration Program focuses on the Indian technology startup community, in particular inventive deep-tech startups focusing on big data, signal and image processing, advanced navigation systems, AI and autonomy, XR-maintenance and training, green energy, advanced production, quantum, edge computing, Human Machine Interfaces and wearable technology. It will provide the participating Indian startups access to advanced resources and technologies, including global mentorship and guidance, networking and funding, to accelerate their market-ready solutions.
Brig. Gen. (Res) Eytan Eshel, Executive Vice President of Technology, Chief Technology Officer (CTO), R&D and Innovation of IAI says, “The NeuSPHERE Innovation Acceleration Program in India is a significant step towards fulfilling IAI’s strategic vision of collaborating with India’s startup ecosystem. We recognise the tremendous technology talent in India and are very excited about this program and to work together to help these companies scale their offerings. This program is part of our efforts to create a worldwide network of technological excellence and drive forward the future of aerospace and defence.”