Trump Administration Signs Dual Executive Orders to Advance Quantum Technology and Secure U.S. Cybersecurity

President Donald J. Trump signed two Executive Orders on June 22, 2026, aimed at establishing American leadership in quantum technology while protecting the nation's digital infrastructure against quantum-enabled threats. The orders represent a comprehensive strategy to accelerate quantum innovation domestically and secure critical systems through post-quantum cryptography migration.

The first Executive Order directs a coordinated national effort to develop an unprecedented quantum computer capable of initiating quantum-enabled scientific discovery and commercial applications. The Assistant to the President for Science and Technology will update the National Quantum Strategy in coordination with the Departments of Energy, War, and Commerce, the Intelligence Community, and U.S. industry leaders. The order calls for developing quantum-enabled sensors and networks within five years and establishes a National Quantum Workforce Development Initiative to expand registered apprenticeships and credentials. It also addresses domestic supply chain security and manufacturing capabilities for quantum technologies while reconstituting the National Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee.

The second Executive Order focuses on cybersecurity resilience by directing an accelerated nationwide migration to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards. The Office of Management and Budget and the National Cyber Director will lead this effort, with the Department of Commerce, National Security Agency, and Department of Homeland Security providing implementation guidance. Federal agencies must transition high-value assets to PQC by 2030 and 2031 depending on use case, with a pilot migration project to be completed by December 31, 2027. The order also directs federal contractors to meet cybersecurity standards and vulnerability disclosure policies by 2030, and calls on the State Department and other agencies to encourage critical infrastructure operators and foreign governments to adopt similar protections for power grids, water systems, and transportation networks.

These orders build on the Trump administration's prior quantum initiatives, including the 2018 National Quantum Initiative Act, which doubled federal quantum research and development funding by 2020. The administration characterizes these actions as essential responses to competing nations, including adversarial countries, that are rapidly advancing quantum capabilities. Together, the orders aim to ensure American dominance in quantum innovation while defending the nation's digital economy against potential quantum-era threats.