Fujitsu Limited has been selected by Japan’s leading research institute, RIKEN, to design the next-generation flagship supercomputer, provisionally named FugakuNEXT. The contract covers the entire system architecture, including computing nodes and CPU components. The basic design phase is scheduled to conclude by February 27, 2026.
Supporting Japan’s Leadership in Science and Technology
As generative AI and other advanced technologies rapidly evolve, the demand for versatile, large-scale computing resources for research and development has surged. The High-Performance Computing Infrastructure (HPCI) Steering Committee, under Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), emphasizes the growing importance of “AI for Science”—the integration of AI with simulation, real-time data, and automated experimentation.
To maintain and advance Japan’s global leadership in science and innovation, a new flexible computing platform is critical. RIKEN has been designated as the primary entity for this development and has chosen Fujitsu as the design partner.
Innovative CPU Design at the Core
FugakuNEXT will build on Fujitsu’s supercomputing legacy by leveraging technologies from the FUJITSU-MONAKA CPU currently in development. This general-purpose CPU, fabricated using advanced 2-nanometer technology, features a unique microarchitecture optimized for 3D packaging and ultra-low voltage operation, enabling high performance and energy efficiency across diverse applications, from edge computing to large-scale data centers.
The successor CPU, tentatively called FUJITSU-MONAKA-X, will power FugakuNEXT and accelerate AI processing capabilities to meet the rising demand for AI workloads. Beyond the supercomputer itself, this CPU will serve a broad range of industrial and societal applications.
Commitment to Sustainable Innovation
Fujitsu’s homegrown CPU technology reinforces Japan’s commitment to building world-class computing infrastructure. The company aims to “make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation,” with FugakuNEXT representing a significant milestone toward that vision.
Fujitsu Leadership Comment
Vivek Mahajan, Corporate Executive Officer and CTO of Fujitsu Limited, stated:
“We are excited to contribute to FugakuNEXT, which will revolutionize Japan’s scientific and technological capabilities. Drawing on our experience with Fugaku and cutting-edge FUJITSU-MONAKA technologies, we will deliver a flexible and powerful system that meets evolving customer needs. Through strategic partnerships, we will drive the computing infrastructure essential for societal and industrial success. This project will also fuel our development of next-generation Neural Processing Units and advanced AI processors, expanding Made-in-Japan technology globally and advancing AI adoption for business and society.”
Related topics: