Wedoany.com Report on Feb 5th, the White House is preparing a comprehensive executive order on quantum technology aimed at restructuring how the federal government funds, builds, protects, and commercializes the technology. A draft document indicates that the order will establish a government-wide coordination mechanism for quantum information science and technology to enhance U.S. competitiveness and reduce security and supply chain risks.
The draft positions quantum technology as a field of both economic opportunity and national security concern. It directs federal agencies to reduce barriers to commercial deployment, expand international market cooperation, and strengthen the infrastructure needed for quantum research and manufacturing. The Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) will play a central coordinating role, with specific implementation responsibilities assigned to departments including the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Commerce.
The order calls for an update to the national quantum strategy, which has not been revised since 2018. The OSTP, in collaboration with the Department of Commerce, the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, and other agencies, is tasked with developing a new version of the strategy within 180 days to reflect current technological advancements and the global competitive landscape. Each agency must submit an implementation plan within 30 days of the strategy's release.
Regarding quantum computing capacity building, the draft proposes the creation of Quantum Computer Systems for Advanced Discovery (QCSAD) for scientific applications, to be deployed at Department of Energy facilities. The Department of Energy will collaborate with the private sector to accelerate system delivery, while the Department of Commerce will develop plans to invest in commercial quantum companies to mitigate technological risks. Additionally, relevant departments will establish a Quantum Computing System Evaluation Center within 180 days.
Beyond computing technology, the draft also addresses the development of quantum sensing and quantum networks. The Department of Energy, the Department of Commerce, the National Science Foundation, and NASA will submit five-year roadmaps outlining each agency's path for technological expansion in these related fields.
In terms of talent development, the OSTP will restructure the National Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee and collaborate with academic institutions to expand education and training. The National Science Foundation will establish a network of quantum information science and technology education institutes, and the Department of Labor will track relevant workforce data.
The order also lists international partnerships as a strategic priority, requiring the Department of Commerce and other agencies to identify and address foreign trade barriers. On security measures, the Federal Bureau of Investigation will expand its quantum technology counterintelligence protection team, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence will strengthen the coordination of related resources.
As private investment in the quantum technology sector continues to grow, this draft executive order demonstrates the strategic importance U.S. policymakers place on the development of this technology. Quantum technology policy is poised to become a significant component of U.S. technology and security strategy.
