Diraq switches on a silicon quantum computer inside a commercial data center

The system came online around November 9-10, 2026, occupying approximately 170 square feet and drawing under 20 kW of power. Unlike quantum computers typically kept in isolated laboratory conditions, Diraq's machine operates within standard data center infrastructure, sharing space with classical servers and GPUs.

This deployment aims to test hybrid quantum-classical workflows in real-world conditions rather than controlled laboratory environments. The company views this as a significant step toward practical quantum computing applications.

Scaling ambitions

While currently operating with 8 qubits, Diraq plans to upgrade the system to 256 qubits within the next year through relatively simple chip swaps, keeping the surrounding hardware unchanged. The longer-term roadmap targets 150,000 physical qubits by 2029 and more than 2 million by 2031.

Diraq's stated goal is achieving utility-scale quantum operation with millions of qubits on a single chip by 2031, positioning itself two years ahead of DARPA's timeline. The company leverages silicon spin qubits built on materials familiar to the semiconductor industry.

Financial backing

In October 2026, Diraq advanced to Stage C of DARPA's Quantum Benchmarking Initiative, the program's final stage, which could provide access to up to $300 million in funding. The company also holds a $38 million letter of intent under the US CHIPS and Science Act.

Key milestones ahead

For investors and policymakers, the critical milestones to watch are whether the 256-qubit upgrade arrives on schedule through chip swaps, and whether DARPA's Stage C process converts into actual funding. The conversion of the CHIPS Act letter of intent into a finalized award also represents a significant next step.