President Donald Trump signed two executive orders Monday aimed at strengthening U.S. leadership in quantum computing while accelerating the federal government’s transition to post-quantum cryptography. The move targets what many call “Q-day,” when quantum computers could break current encryption standards that protect government networks, cryptocurrency wallets, and more.
White House science adviser Michael Kratsios stressed that quantum technology remains a key priority. He noted that Trump has already signed the National Quantum Initiative Act, doubled federal R&D spending on quantum research and launched five national research institutes. Now, in a second term, they are doubling down.
The first order, titled Ushering in the Next Frontier of Quantum Innovation, directs federal agencies to build a “scientifically relevant” quantum computer by 2028. It also requires the Departments of Commerce, Energy and Defense, as well as NASA, to submit plans for quantum sensors and networking within five years. A senior White House official said the Energy Department would establish the technical specifications, likely placing the system in a national laboratory. This is seen as a stepping stone to larger quantum machines.
Deadline set for post-quantum cybersecurity
The second order moves the federal deadline for adopting post-quantum cryptography to December 2031, moving it from 2035 under National Security Memorandum-10. It also directs the Department of Commerce, through NIST, to conduct a migration pilot by the end of 2027. CISA will help critical infrastructure operators transition to quantum-resistant encryption.
Other parts of the orders focus on training the workforce, strengthening domestic supply chains, strengthening coordination with allies, and protecting quantum research from cyber and counterespionage threats. Officials said the FBI’s Quantum Information Science and Technology Counterintelligence Protection Team will expand.
The crypto industry is already on the move
These orders come as the crypto world prepares for post-quantum risks. Google in March set an adoption deadline of 2029. BTQ Technologies launched a Bitcoin testnet using the BIP-360 quantum resistance proposal. In April, developers proposed BIP-361, which could freeze Bitcoin in old, vulnerable addresses if owners don’t move their coins.
Most recently, Stellar shared a roadmap for quantum migration. Coinbase’s Quantum Advisory Board has warned that around 7 million Bitcoins could potentially be at risk from quantum attacks. Algorand said it was aiming for broad quantum resilience by 2027.
Kratsios described these policies as an engine of growth in sectors such as manufacturing, drug discovery, energy and agriculture. He believes quantum advances will benefit Americans for decades.
