DARE Project: €240M Investment to Boost Europe’s High-Performance Computing Ecosystem

Barcelona Supercomputing Center Leads DARE Project with €240m Investment

The DARE project aims to develop high-performance computing (HPC) chips in Europe. It is a significant initiative compared to CERN and Airbus, with an initial investment of €240 million.

The European Commission will provide half of the funding, €120 million, through EuroHPC JU. Spain’s Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities will contribute €34.4 million. Additionally, 45 European partners will support the project financially.

The Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC-CNS) will manage the hardware and software ecosystem for HPC and artificial intelligence applications over the next three years. This includes the development of the next supercomputer, MareNostrum 6.

RISC-V is an open-source processor architecture that eliminates licensing fees. This initiative aims to boost European technological sovereignty, reducing reliance on American and Asian chip manufacturers.

Strengthening Europe’s Digital Independence

BSC has ten years of experience in RISC-V chip development and previously coordinated the European Processor Initiative. Director Mateo Valero stated that DARE will create the necessary environment for European supercomputers and ethical AI.

Minister Diana Morant highlighted the project’s importance for Spain, establishing it as a key player in chip development. This sector is vital for addressing significant challenges in health, climate change, and energy.