NKT Photonics and Yaqumo Sign Memorandum on Advanced Optical Systems for Quantum Computer Industrialization

## Background

The practical application and industrialization of quantum computers require not only the development of processors but also the advancement of core optical components that fundamentally support their performance, as well as the establishment of a stable procurement base. This is a global challenge. Particularly in neutral-atom quantum computers, high-performance optical devices are essential for the processes of trapping, cooling, manipulating, and reading out atoms. The development of integrated modules (such as optical engines) is key to the industrialization of quantum computers.

Hamamatsu Photonics is a global leader in the development and manufacture of cutting-edge photodetection and imaging technologies capable of single-photon detection. NKT Photonics A/S possesses world-class expertise in advanced laser systems and fiber laser technology. Yaqumo Co., Ltd. is developing a ytterbium (Yb)-based neutral-atom quantum computing architecture.

Today, the three companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on advanced optical systems for the industrialization of quantum computers. Through this MoU, the three companies aim to jointly research, develop, and industrialize advanced optical systems for neutral-atom quantum computing, as well as to build a global supply chain.

## Collaboration Framework

This MoU establishes a collaboration framework for the three companies to explore the possibilities of joint research and development, module industrialization, and global supply chain construction in the field of core optical components essential for the industrialization of quantum computers.

Leveraging their respective strengths in photodetectors and imaging systems for quantum computers, laser technology, and quantum computing hardware, the three companies will deepen mutual understanding and promote future collaboration, from the development of advanced optical devices to the industrialization of integrated systems including optical engines.

## International Cooperation

This MoU is positioned as a private-sector initiative that concretizes bilateral cooperation in advanced technology fields, including quantum technology, based on the Memorandum of Cooperation in Quantum Science and Technology between Japan and Denmark signed in 2025.

The signing ceremony was held in the presence of Mr. Hitoshi Kikukawa, Director-General of the Innovation and Environment Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and Mr. Jarl Frijs-Madsen, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Denmark to Japan. This symbolizes the promotion of quantum computer industrialization based on intergovernmental cooperation, going beyond private-sector collaboration.

Through this collaboration, Japan is expected to build a robust supply chain for core optical components in the quantum computer industry, while Denmark is expected to achieve industrial growth and job creation by playing a central role in the global quantum industry supply chain.

## Future Outlook

Hamamatsu Photonics, NKT Photonics, and Yaqumo will combine their expertise in photodetectors and imaging systems for quantum computers, laser technology, and quantum computing hardware to contribute to technological development for the industrialization of quantum computers and to strengthen international cooperation in quantum technology between Japan and Denmark.

## Company Comments

**Mr. Tadashi Maruno, President and Representative Director, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.**

For the industrialization of quantum computers, the advanced integration of NKT Photonics' cutting-edge laser technology and our high-sensitivity photodetection and imaging technologies is essential. Through this collaboration, we will work with Yaqumo and NKT Photonics to contribute to the realization of advanced devices and integrated systems and the construction of a global quantum supply chain. We expect this partnership to be a significant catalyst for accelerating the social implementation of quantum technology and the creation of new industrial value.

**Mr. Carsten Thomsen, CTO, NKT Photonics A/S**

With this collaboration, NKT Photonics is taking another important step toward its mission of accelerating the quantum computing revolution. Leveraging our unique fiber laser technology and our position as part of the Hamamatsu Photonics Group, we will provide system-level laser and fiber infrastructure that can scale with our customers' growth.

**Mr. Kazuhiro Nakatsukasa, Representative Director and CEO, Yaqumo Co., Ltd.**

In the industrialization of quantum computers, the advancement of core optical components is an unavoidable challenge. Through this collaboration with NKT Photonics, which has world-class laser technology, and Hamamatsu Photonics, a global leader in photodetection and imaging technology, we are confident that we can make significant progress toward realizing advanced optical systems optimized for neutral-atom quantum computers. Based on the bilateral cooperation between Japan and Denmark, we will jointly promote the construction of a global quantum supply chain.

## Signing Ceremony Overview

- Date and Time: June 3, 2026 (Wednesday), 17:30
- Location: Official Residence of the Danish Ambassador to Japan
- Signatories: Mr. Tadashi Maruno (President and Representative Director, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.), Mr. Carsten Thomsen (CTO, NKT Photonics A/S), Mr. Kazuhiro Nakatsukasa (Representative Director and CEO, Yaqumo Co., Ltd.)
- Witnesses: Mr. Jarl Frijs-Madsen, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Denmark to Japan; Mr. Hitoshi Kikukawa, Director-General of the Innovation and Environment Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry

## Company Profiles

**About Hamamatsu Photonics K.K.**

Hamamatsu Photonics engages in the research, development, and manufacture of products and technologies based on optical technology, ranging from devices such as optical sensors, light sources, and lasers to modules with dedicated circuits and complete systems. With core businesses in electron tubes, opto-semiconductors, image measurement equipment, and lasers, the company expands the possibilities of optical technology through basic and applied research, providing high-value-added solutions in a wide range of fields including medical, industrial, scientific, measurement, and environmental.
https://www.hamamatsu.com

**About NKT Photonics A/S**

Headquartered in Denmark, NKT Photonics was founded by scientists and engineers, driven by innovation and passion for photonics. The company is a leading supplier of high-performance fiber lasers and photonic crystal fibers. Its main markets are quantum and nanotechnology, medical and life sciences, industrial, and aerospace and defense. The product portfolio includes supercontinuum white light lasers, low-noise fiber lasers, ultrafast lasers, and a wide range of specialty fibers. NKT Photonics is a subsidiary of Hamamatsu Photonics.
https://www.nktphotonics.com

**About Yaqumo Co., Ltd.**

Yaqumo is a startup founded based on the research achievements of the Takahashi Laboratory at Kyoto University and the Omori Laboratory at the Institute for Molecular Science, which are leading global research and development in the neutral-atom method, a promising approach to quantum computing. The neutral-atom method is characterized by its high design flexibility, such as not requiring large cryogenic refrigerators like superconducting methods and being easy to scale up the number of qubits. However, it faces challenges such as the difficulty of repeated quantum error correction and computational speed.