On June 22, local time, Trump signed two executive orders aimed at promoting the development of advanced quantum computers and preparing for cybersecurity threats posed by quantum technology, according to reports from Reuters and The Wall Street Journal.
The first executive order directs federal agencies, including the Department of Energy, to collaborate with businesses and universities to establish high-performance quantum computers for scientific research by 2028. Michael Kratsios, head of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, stated in a pre-briefing, "We believe this is achievable by 2028."
Quantum computers utilize principles of quantum mechanics to perform complex calculations significantly faster than traditional computers. They hold great potential in drug development, advanced materials, artificial intelligence (AI), and energy systems, but there are concerns that they could undermine existing encryption systems.
The executive order also includes plans for deploying quantum sensors. The Department of Defense is working on a strategy to implement quantum sensors by 2028, which could assist in locating aircraft and weapon systems in environments where Global Positioning Systems (GPS) are disrupted.
The second executive order focuses on transitioning the encryption systems of government computer networks to defend against hacking threats posed by quantum computers. The goal is to migrate core government systems to quantum-resistant encryption by 2030 or 2031. Quantum-resistant encryption is designed to be difficult to decode even with quantum computers.
The U.S. government is also ramping up financial support for quantum initiatives. Last month, the Department of Commerce announced it would provide a total of $2.013 billion in federal incentives to nine quantum-related companies, including IBM, GlobalFoundries, Rigetti, and Quantum. The support targets companies building quantum computer manufacturing capabilities and addressing key technological challenges such as error rates, cryogenic systems, and optical equipment.
As part of the funding conditions, the Department of Commerce proposed acquiring minority stakes in these companies, indicating a shift from merely providing grants to becoming a direct investor in strategic industries.
The signing ceremony at the White House included prominent figures from major tech companies, such as Arvind Krishna, CEO of IBM, and Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet and Google. Trump remarked, "The United States will invest at an unprecedented level in our leading position in quantum computing."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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