Japan has announced plans to start building the first-ever “zeta-class” supercomputer in 2025, with a projected cost of over $750 million. Once completed, this new machine, known as “Fugaku Next,” will be 1,000 times more powerful than today’s fastest supercomputers and is expected to go online by 2030.
Speed and Performance : The zeta-class supercomputer will reach speeds on a zetaFLOPS scale—capable of performing one sextillion (1 followed by 21 zeros) calculations per second. For comparison, today’s top supercomputers operate at the exaFLOPS scale (one quintillion calculations per second).
Purpose : The supercomputer aims to advance Japan’s capabilities in AI-driven scientific research, ensuring the country remains at the forefront of technological development.
Construction : The project will be led by RIKEN and Fujitsu, the same companies that built Fugaku, Japan’s previous record-breaking supercomputer. To maintain cross-compatibility, Fugaku Next will likely incorporate Fujitsu-designed components.
Challenges : Building a zeta-class machine comes with significant challenges, including high energy demands. Experts estimate it could require the equivalent output of 21 nuclear power plants if current technologies are used.
Funding : Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) has set aside ¥4.2 billion ($29 million) for the first year, with total funding potentially reaching ¥110 billion ($761 million).
If completed as planned, Fugaku Next will be the most powerful supercomputer on Earth, provided no other zeta-class machines are built first.
