The United States has taken a major step towards accelerating quantum technology development after President Donald Trump signed two executive orders aimed at building a powerful quantum computer by 2028 and strengthening the country’s cybersecurity defences against future quantum threats. The move underscores Washington’s growing focus on maintaining technological leadership over China in what is increasingly being viewed as the next major frontier in computing.
The executive orders seek to speed up both quantum computing research and the transition to quantum-resistant cybersecurity systems, reflecting concerns that future quantum machines could dramatically reshape science, industry, and national security.
US Aims to Build a Powerful Quantum Computer by 2028
One of the executive orders directs federal agencies, national laboratories, universities, and private-sector companies to collaborate on developing a quantum computer powerful enough to conduct advanced scientific research by 2028. White House science officials believe the target is achievable despite the significant technical challenges involved.
Quantum computers operate differently from traditional computers by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics. They have the potential to solve certain complex problems far faster than even today’s most advanced supercomputers. Applications could include drug discovery, materials science, artificial intelligence, logistics optimisation, and climate modelling.
Cybersecurity Becomes a Key Priority
The second executive order focuses on protecting government systems from future quantum-enabled cyberattacks. Experts have long warned that sufficiently powerful quantum computers could eventually break many of the encryption methods currently used to secure sensitive information and digital communications.
To address this risk, the administration has set a goal of migrating critical government systems to post-quantum cryptography by 2030 or 2031. These next-generation encryption methods are designed to remain secure even in a future where powerful quantum computers become widely available.
Pentagon to Deploy Quantum Sensors
Beyond computing, the executive orders also call for the deployment of quantum sensing technologies by 2028. These sensors could provide significant military advantages, particularly in environments where GPS signals are unavailable or disrupted.
Quantum sensors could help aircraft navigate without GPS and may eventually enable satellites to detect underground structures, tunnels, and missile facilities from space. Industry experts believe quantum sensing could become commercially viable even before large-scale quantum computing is fully realised.
Billions Already Flowing Into Quantum Technology
The orders build upon recent government investments aimed at strengthening the US quantum ecosystem. The Commerce Department recently announced plans involving approximately $2 billion in investments across several quantum computing companies, reflecting growing confidence in the technology’s long-term potential.
Major technology companies including IBM, Google, Microsoft, and several specialised quantum startups are already investing heavily in the sector, with the goal of achieving practical, fault-tolerant quantum computers later this decade.
Quantum Race Intensifies
The executive orders highlight how quantum technology is increasingly becoming a strategic priority for global powers. The United States, China, Europe, and other nations are investing billions of dollars into research and development, viewing quantum computing as a technology that could shape economic competitiveness, military capabilities, and scientific leadership for decades to come.
If the 2028 target is achieved, the US could significantly accelerate the transition of quantum computing from experimental research to real-world applications, potentially ushering in a new era of technological innovation.
Summary
President Trump has signed two executive orders aimed at building a powerful quantum computer by 2028 and accelerating the adoption of quantum-resistant cybersecurity systems. The initiative also includes plans for deploying quantum sensors and expanding federal support for quantum research. The move reflects growing competition with China and highlights the strategic importance of quantum technology in science, defence, and cybersecurity.
