Scope
Reference
UKRI-5676
Description
Support and Maintenance for ARTEMIS system quantum computer hosted at RAL. Lessor shall provide software support in terms of bug fixes and occasional updates to Software. Software Support Services will be provided via remote call or email.
Contract 1. UKRI-5676 Equipment Hire Agreement
Supplier
Contract value
- £320,300 excluding VAT
- £384,360 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Earliest date the contract will be signed
6 February 2026
Contract dates (estimated)
- 9 February 2026 to 8 February 2027
- 1 year
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 72261000 - Software support services
Contract locations
- UKJ14 - Oxfordshire
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Direct award
Direct award justification
Single supplier - technical reasons
This contract has been awarded directly to Aegiq Ltd as they are the original designer and manufacturer of the ARTEMIS photonic quantum computer delivered to NQCC under the SBRI Testbeds funding call. The system is a bespoke, one‑off research asset that relies on proprietary technology and Aegiq‑specific expertise. Aegiq Ltd is the only supplier technically capable of providing the required support and maintenance services. Continued support is essential to ensure ongoing operation, benchmarking and exploitation of the system and to maximise the benefits of the Testbeds investment. A direct award is therefore justified for technical reasons.
Supplier
Aegiq Ltd
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PMLB-8284-LPDP
Cooper Buildings, Arundel Street
Sheffield
S1 2NS
United Kingdom
Email: hello@aegiq.com
Region: UKE32 - Sheffield
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): No
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): No
Contract 1. UKRI-5676 Equipment Hire Agreement
Contracting authority
UK Research & Innovation (UKRI)
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PDQJ-7126-JDHG
Polaris House
Swindon, Wiltshire
SN2 1FL
United Kingdom
Region: UKK14 - Swindon
Organisation type: Public authority - central government