US executive orders aim to accelerate quantum computing and secure cryptography amid global competition, with agency updates due in six months.
President Donald Trump signed two executive orders to advance US quantum computing and develop cryptography resistant to quantum attacks. The orders mandate a government-wide strategy to speed deployment and commercialization of quantum technologies while addressing national security risks from adversaries like China.
The move follows China’s recent five-year plan to expand quantum computing investment and build a space-earth quantum communication network. Trump’s orders require agencies to update the National Quantum Strategy within 180 days, focusing on industry partnerships and post-quantum cryptography migration.
Agencies must also assess the implications of scalable quantum computers, including potential threats to current encryption methods. The orders establish the Quantum Computer for Application Development and Discovery Science initiative to support research.