Donald Trump has signed two executive orders aimed at accelerating America’s leadership in quantum technology while strengthening defenses against future cybersecurity threats linked to quantum computing.
The orders, 14411 and 14409, were signed on June 22 and focus on expanding quantum innovation while preparing federal systems for the security challenges posed by advanced quantum machines.
Expanding US Leadership in Quantum Technology
Executive Order 14411 focuses on strengthening the United States’ quantum science and technology capabilities.
The administration emphasized that the US must remain competitive in quantum computing, sensing, and networking as global rivals continue investing heavily in these areas. The order calls for a coordinated national strategy to support research, manufacturing, commercialization, and real world deployment of quantum technologies while protecting critical innovations from foreign adversaries.
As part of the initiative, the administration will update the National Quantum Strategy within 180 days. Federal agencies will then be required to align programs and policies with the revised framework.
A major part of the order is the creation of the Quantum Computer for Application Development and Discovery Science initiative, known as QC ADDS. This program aims to develop a large scale quantum computer capable of enabling scientific breakthroughs beyond the reach of traditional computing systems.
The United States Department of Energy has been tasked with defining technical requirements within 90 days and evaluating private sector partnership models to help build at least one large scale system. The machine is expected to be installed at a Department of Energy facility and, where possible, made available to researchers and the scientific community.
The order also expands efforts in quantum sensing and networking. The Department of Defense must identify at least three next generation quantum sensor projects that can be deployed by September 2028.
Other agencies, including the Departments of Commerce and Energy, NASA, and the National Science Foundation, must develop five year plans covering quantum research, manufacturing, networking, and space based applications.
Additional priorities include strengthening domestic supply chains, improving manufacturing access, expanding workforce development, and coordinating with allied nations on technology protection and market access.
Preparing for Quantum Cybersecurity Risks
Executive Order 14409 addresses the cybersecurity risks posed by future quantum computers.
The White House warned that adversaries could collect encrypted data today and store it for future decryption once powerful quantum systems become available. This threat is often described as harvest now, decrypt later.
To address this risk, federal agencies are being directed to transition toward post quantum cryptography standards approved by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
Each federal agency must appoint a post quantum cryptography migration leader within 30 days to oversee the transition.
The order sets clear deadlines for upgrading critical systems. High value assets and high impact systems must adopt post quantum encryption for key establishment by the end of 2030 and for digital signatures by the end of 2031.
Additional measures include new procurement standards, support for critical infrastructure operators preparing for quantum migration, coordination with foreign governments and industry groups on approved encryption standards, and annual progress reporting on national security systems.
Together, the two executive orders signal a major push by the United States to lead in quantum innovation while preparing for the profound security challenges the technology may bring.#crypto#cryptonews https://coinsignals.nethttps://t.me/coinsignalpublic
