FullStaQD

Project description
FullStaQD is the central initiative for establishing a holistic quantum computing software stack in Germany and, at the same time, the flagship project of the QC Next technology programme. The consortium is developing a comprehensive reference architecture as an integration framework for the various layers of the stack and is linking existing solutions with newly developed components. The aim is to create a robust, open and modular software infrastructure that supports specific applications and facilitates the use of quantum computing in science and industry.

Challenge and Innovation
A key challenge in quantum computing lies in transforming the previously often fragmented software landscape into a coherent and interoperable overall system. Many existing solutions are geared towards individual components or specific hardware platforms, require a high level of specialist knowledge and have limited interoperability.

This is where FullStaQD comes in, as the project is developing a unified reference architecture with standardised, open interfaces. Particularly innovative is the holistic approach across all levels of the software stack – from the physical layer through the system layer to the application layer and cross-cutting issues.

Solution Approach
FullStaQD is developing a modular, multi-layered quantum computing software stack based on the overarching reference architecture. To this end, the necessary components, layers and interfaces are first defined, and existing solutions from research and development are integrated into a common framework.

The stack is designed so that individual building blocks can be further developed, supplemented and adapted to different hardware platforms independently. At the same time, it is intended to integrate seamlessly into existing classical HPC infrastructures to enable hybrid workflows combining classical computing and quantum computing. In addition, technical gaps are being bridged by new components, reference implementations are being established, and concrete end-to-end software stacks for specific applications are being validated in practice.

Use Cases
FullStaQD validates its reference architecture and specific stack instances using practical applications from its use-case partners DB Systel (passenger recognition on the track, train scheduling) and Bundesdruckerei ((quantum) computer-assisted resilient policy design).

The aim is to tailor the stack to specific areas of application and enable applications at a high level of abstraction without requiring in-depth specialist knowledge of quantum hardware. The focus is on application-oriented end-to-end implementations that demonstrate the stack’s usability in realistic scenarios.

Market outlook and product promise
FullStaQD lays the foundation for a more interoperable and practically usable quantum computing software infrastructure in Germany. The open-source release of the reference architecture and the provision of blueprints for rapid instantiation ensure that the software stack will continue to be used beyond the end of the project.

The modular structure, open interfaces and focus on specific applications enable Software-as-a-Service business models, facilitate access to quantum computing for application companies and improve integration into existing industrial processes. In the long term, the project strengthens Germany’s competitiveness, reduces undesirable dependencies on the software side and supports the development of a sustainable quantum computing ecosystem.

Consortium

  • Fraunhofer IAO (project lead)
  • Bundesdruckerei GmbH
  • DB Systel GmbH
  • eleQtron GmbH
  • Fraunhofer FOKUS
  • FZI Research Centre for Information Technology
  • Kipu Quantum GmbH
  • Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
  • Parity Quantum Computing Germany GmbH
  • Technical University of Munich

Duration
December 2025 until May 2029

Budget
Total funding: €20.4 million
Funding amount: €14.1 million