Slovakia has a new supercomputer. At the campus of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, we officially launched PERUN SAV – an infrastructure project that significantly strengthens the country’s computational capacities and opens new opportunities for science, research, and innovation.
With a performance of up to 14.5 PFLOP/s, PERUN ranks among the most powerful computing systems in the region. Compared to the previous Devana supercomputer, it represents a major increase in capacity, substantially expanding possibilities for scientific research as well as industrial applications.
The event opened with the expert panel discussion Slovakia in the Era of Artificial Intelligence, highlighting that high-performance computing is no longer only a topic for research laboratories, but also a strategic issue for the entire economy. The ceremonial opening culminated in a symbolic ribbon-cutting attended by government representatives and representatives of key institutions.
“The Slovak Academy of Sciences has long emphasised the importance of high-quality research infrastructure. PERUN is tangible proof that such investments matter. It provides our scientists with a tool that enables them to conduct research fully comparable with the international environment,” said Martin Venhart, President of the Slovak Academy of Sciences.
At the same time, the PERUN supercomputer strengthens Slovakia’s position within the European high-performance computing landscape and creates conditions for broader participation in international projects and initiatives.
“I knew PERUN would be a machine that would move us forward. But when I arrived and saw the people working on this project, I realised we are creating something far greater. We are creating proof that Slovakia, when it wants to, can think big. PERUN, however, is only a tool. Its true value will come from the scientists, doctoral students, and researchers who will bring here questions that do not yet have answers. Personally, today I have already found one answer – whether Slovak science has a chance to succeed globally. The answer is yes, also thanks to PERUN,” said Samuel Migaľ, Minister of Investments, Regional Development and Informatization of the Slovak Republic.
The significance of the project is further underlined by its practical impact – from scientific research to real-world applications.
“PERUN is not merely a technological system, but a tool that enables the analysis of massive volumes of data and the solving of complex problems where computational power has previously been insufficient. From medicine and climate modelling to industrial innovation, its applications have a real impact on everyday life. It is a clear signal that Slovakia is capable of building modern infrastructure with genuine importance for both science and society. I would also like to thank the entire team of experts involved in the preparation and implementation of the project – without their dedication, PERUN would not be a reality today,” said Nikola Kovaničová, Director General of the Centre of Shared Activities of the Slovak Academy of Sciences.
However, the most important part is only beginning now.
PERUN is ready to compute.
Photo: Matej Pok