CASE STUDY 3 Advancing industrial R&D with quantum computing Aramco, a global leader in energy and chemicals, faces complex industrial challenges such as materials discovery for carbon capture, large-scale process optimization and subsurface modelling (which simulates underground geological formations to optimize resource extraction and environmental management). These domains push the limits of classical computing and supercomputing, creating bottlenecks in efficiency and innovation. To address these challenges, Aramco partnered with Pasqal to deploy a 200-qubit quantum computer in Saudi Arabia by the end of 2025. With this on-premises infrastructure, Aramco aims to accelerates joint R&D efforts in quantum algorithm development for logistics, predictive maintenance and energy distribution that can drive greater efficiency, resilience and sustainability across interconnected value chains.The partnership exemplifies cross-border ecosystem collaboration, bringing together a global quantum technology innovator and a regional industrial champion. The project is expected to catalyse knowledge transfer, joint R&D and the creation of a local quantum innovation ecosystem. Recognizing the global shortage of quantum expertise, the agreement includes commitments to train local engineers and scientists in quantum programming, hardware maintenance and algorithm development. As quantum solutions mature, the lessons learned from Aramco’s deployment will inform the best practices for other industrial players seeking to integrate quantum technologies into their operations.15 CASE STUDY 4 Secure transfer of sensitive data between remote industrial facilities The National Composites Centre (NCC), a world-leading composite R&D facility, and the Centre for Modelling & Simulation (CFMS) have been connected through the UK’s first industrial quantum-secure QKD network. Previously, sensitive data was physically transported via portable storage devices between the sites, which was time-consuming and posed security risks, especially in the context of increasingly distributed supply chains and digital transformation. The solution allows highspeed encrypted data transfer and supports a 10 gigabytes per second (GBps) quantum- secure tunnel over a 7km optical fibre link. Quantum keys are generated at high throughput, which enables the continuous encryption of data. To eliminate the need for costly dedicated infrastructure to transmit quantum keys, NCC and CFMS implemented multiplexing, which enabled both data and quantum keys to be transmitted on the same standard fibre. This deployment showcases the transformative potential of QKD in enabling distributed offsite control of factories and unlocking the internet of things (IoT). This initiative also positions the UK as a leader in quantum-ready manufacturing, paving the way for connected smart factories and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and underscores the commercial importance of quantum-secure networks in safeguarding data and driving innovation in advanced manufacturing.16 Note: See the appendices (A2) for other notable case studies.Quantum security and communicationsEarly quantum technology case studies (non-exhaustive) in product design and R&D (continued) Quantum computing (continued) Quantum Technologies: Key Opportunities for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains 11

Quantum Technologies Key Opportunities for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains 2025