en research, large-scale simulations and data intensive applications. Strengthening Europe’s AI Infrastructure Portugal’s participation contributes to a multi-million euro upgrade of MareNostrum 5 which will integrate AI-optimized processors, faster interconnect technology, expanded data storage and energy-efficient architecture. The enhanced system is expected to rank among Europe’s most advanced supercomputing platforms, capable of supporting complex tasks such as climate modeling, biomedical research, drug discovery, language technologies and industrial AI applications. Portuguese authorities say the investment aligns with national and European goals to reduce reliance on non-European computing infrastructure while accelerating innovation in strategic sectors. Benefits for Portuguese Science and Industry Through this initiative, Portuguese universities, research centers, startups and public institutions will gain improved access to world-class computing resources. The supercomputer will enable researchers to process vast datasets and run simulations that would otherwise be impossible using conventional systems. Officials highlighted that sectors such as healthcare, renewable energy, agriculture, ocean science, aerospace and cybersecurity are expected to benefit directly from the increased computational power. The project is being coordinated at national level through Portugal’s scientific and research bodies, ensuring equitable access for academic and industrial users. A Strategic Investment in Competitiveness MareNostrum 5 is also a key component of Europe’s emerging network of so-called “AI factories”, designed to democratize access to high performance computing and accelerate the development of trustworthy European AI technologies. Portugal’s involvement signals its commitment to remaining competitive in a rapidly evolving global technology landscape. Experts note that high performance computing has become a cornerstone of economic resilience and technological sovereignty with supercomputers now essential infrastructure for both scientific discovery and industrial innovation. Looking Ahead As Europe intensifies investment in digital infrastructure, Portugal’s participation in MareNostrum 5 places the country firmly within the core of continental research and innovation efforts. The upgraded system is expected to become fully operational in the coming phase, marking a significant milestone in Europe’s ambition to lead in AI and advanced computing. The move underscores Portugal’s long-term strategy to position itself as an active contributor to Europe’s high-tech ecosystem bridging science, industry and public policy through cutting edge computational power.