President Donald Trump has signed two executive orders aimed at accelerating U.S. leadership in quantum computing while preparing the country for the cybersecurity challenges posed by future quantum machines. The first order launches a national effort to build a scientifically relevant quantum computer by 2028, while the second accelerates the transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) to protect government systems and critical infrastructure from future quantum-enabled cyberattacks. The initiatives position quantum technology alongside artificial intelligence as a strategic national priority.
The quantum computing order directs federal agencies, national laboratories, industry, and academic institutions to collaborate on developing advanced quantum hardware, networking technologies, and sensing systems. The U.S. Department of Energy will establish performance benchmarks and oversee the deployment of a national laboratory-based quantum computer capable of supporting scientific research and commercial innovation. The administration believes this investment will strengthen U.S. competitiveness in areas such as drug discovery, materials science, manufacturing, and defense.
The second executive order focuses on cybersecurity by requiring federal agencies to migrate to quantum-resistant encryption standards. Powerful future quantum computers could eventually break many of today's encryption methods, threatening sensitive government, financial, healthcare, and defense systems. The order sets deadlines for adopting post-quantum encryption and authentication technologies, with agencies expected to begin transitioning well before quantum computers become capable of compromising existing cryptographic systems.
The executive orders reflect growing recognition that quantum computing is becoming a key arena of global technological competition. Alongside continued investment in AI, the U.S. is seeking to secure leadership in quantum technologies while protecting its digital infrastructure against emerging threats. Although significant technical challenges remain before large-scale fault-tolerant quantum computers become practical, the new policies are intended to accelerate research, commercialization, and national preparedness for the quantum era.
