The plan is to develop the world’s first quantum computer capable of powering advanced scientific research by 2028.
WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump signed two executive orders on June 22, setting development goals for the quantum computing industry meant to establish U.S. dominance in the newly developing science and technology field.
An order titled “Ushering in the Next Frontier of Quantum Innovation” sets fast-paced goals, calling on industry leaders to develop the world’s first quantum computer capable of powering advanced scientific research by 2028.
“These policies will drive transformational growth in existing and entirely new industries, and manufacturing, drug discovery, energy, agriculture, and more,” Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, said during a briefing call with reporters on Monday.
“Quantum breakthroughs mean innovation, economic growth, national security that will benefit the American people for decades to come.”
Elements of the order are aimed at strengthening the domestic supply chain and workforce to support a growing quantum industry.
The departments of Commerce, War, Energy, and NASA are instructed to develop blueprints for widespread deployment of quantum networks within the next five years.
The order regulates international partnerships by hardening international property, security, and research protections “in light of competitors and adversaries looking to undermine U.S. economic and national security,” Kratsios said.
A second order directs government officials to expedite the adoption of post-quantum security measures.
“A piece of this is providing guidance to the agencies, clear guidance to all the agencies,” a senior administration official told The Epoch Times during the briefing call, noting a planned pilot program for the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
Existing security protocols are no match for quantum processors, and officials are seeking to mitigate potential harm as new technologies become available.
“Promoting innovation and strengthening cybersecurity go hand-in-hand together,” Kratsios said.
During his first term in office, Trump signed the National Quantum Initiative Act, doubling the amount of money the federal government spends on researching quantum technologies. His administration oversaw the launch of five national quantum research institutes, with $625 million in funding commitments renewed last year.
