Washington, June 23: The United States has taken a significant step in quantum technology. President Donald Trump has signed executive orders aimed at accelerating the development of advanced quantum computers and transitioning federal agencies to quantum-resistant cybersecurity systems.
The White House stated that these initiatives are designed to strengthen America’s position in the tech sector. They are increasingly seen as vital for economic competition, scientific discovery, and national security.
During a signing ceremony at the White House, Trump remarked, “Quantum technology represents the next generation of innovation in computing, sensing, and networking, which is crucial for our country’s economic growth, scientific research, and cybersecurity.”
The first executive order, titled “Initiating the Next Frontier of Quantum Innovation,” sets national goals to advance the development of quantum-enabled sensors and networks.
Trump noted that this initiative will launch a national effort to create quantum computers capable of performing essential scientific calculations within the next five years.
The government believes such machines could be developed by 2028. A senior official mentioned that this effort would help translate years of research into practical applications.
During a background briefing, the official told the media, “We are at a point where much research is becoming commercially viable, and this executive order will accelerate that process.”
According to government officials, the Department of Energy will define the technical requirements for the systems, which are expected to be implemented at national laboratories or through the Department of Energy’s capabilities.
The goal of this order is also to enhance domestic manufacturing capacity for quantum technology, strengthen the supply chain, develop new workforce programs, and deepen collaboration with allies on research, intellectual property protection, and supply-chain security.
The second executive order focuses on cybersecurity. It accelerates the federal government’s transition to post-quantum cryptography, pushing essential deadlines to 2031.
National Cyber Director Sean Cournoyer stated that this step is necessary because future quantum computers could challenge existing encryption systems that secure financial transactions, critical infrastructure, and government networks.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick mentioned that the government has already made significant investments in this field. He stated, “Just weeks ago, the government invested $2 billion to advance quantum technology. The U.S. is also investing in domestic manufacturing capabilities to ensure that advanced quantum technology is developed here.”
Leaders from the tech industry welcomed this initiative. Google Chair Ruth Porat described quantum computing as a major and essential technology, asserting, “America is ahead and will remain ahead.”
IBM CEO Arvind Krishna noted that government support will encourage more investment in the private sector. He stated, “The government’s role in advancing innovation and technology is key to achieving both.”
President Trump linked this initiative to the country’s broader technological ambitions, saying, “The U.S. is celebrating 250 years of new thinking, innovation, and invention this year, and today’s commitments to quantum leadership will help preserve that legacy for decades to come.”
Quantum computing has become a strategic priority for governments worldwide due to its potential to solve scientific, industrial, and security challenges far beyond the capabilities of traditional computers. Major powers, including the U.S. and China, have invested heavily in this technology over the past decade.
The new executive orders are based on the National Quantum Initiative Act signed by Trump in 2018. That law increased federal support for quantum research and established a framework for collaboration among government agencies, universities, and private industries, laying the groundwork for the next phase of America’s quantum strategy.
The Trump administration has set a goal to develop scientifically useful and relevant quantum computers by 2028. An ambitious strategy has been proposed to ensure America’s leading position in one of the world’s most important emerging technologies.
A senior government official stated, “We believe this could happen by 2028.” Officials have described this project as a crucial milestone in the significant development of quantum computing.
Another official indicated that the government views this system as a means to reach the “next goal” toward larger and more capable quantum machines in the future.
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