Trump Orders Federal Push To Build Powerful Quantum Computer, Harden U.S. Cyber Defenses

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief

(Worthy News) – President Donald Trump on Monday signed two executive orders aimed at accelerating America’s lead in quantum computing while preparing federal systems for the next generation of cyber threats.

Speaking from the Oval Office alongside executives from major U.S. technology companies, including Google and IBM, Trump said the orders mark “a big step forward” in keeping the United States ahead of China in one of the most consequential technology races of the century.

“We’re already the leader by a lot and we’re going to be now the leader by a lot more,” Trump said. “Over the next five years, we’re going to be investing in American quantum leadership like never before to stay ahead of the pack.”

The first order directs the federal government to support the development of a powerful quantum computer for scientific research. Quantum computers use the principles of quantum physics to process information at speeds far beyond traditional computers, potentially transforming fields such as artificial intelligence, materials science, chemistry, medicine, and national defense.

Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, said private-sector investment has reached a point where research is beginning to move toward commercial application.

“What this executive order will do is turbocharge that,” Kratsios said.

The second order focuses on cybersecurity, directing intelligence agencies and federal departments to prepare government computer systems for threats posed by future quantum-powered attacks. The order sets a goal of moving critical federal systems to post-quantum cryptography by 2030 or 2031.

Post-quantum cryptography uses advanced encryption algorithms designed to withstand attacks from both conventional computers and future quantum machines, which could one day break many of today’s security protections.

The move comes as Washington intensifies its competition with Beijing over emerging technologies. Last month, the Commerce Department announced it would take $2 billion in equity stakes across nine quantum-computing companies, including a new IBM venture.

For the Trump administration, the orders signal that quantum computing is not merely a scientific priority, but a strategic national-security imperative.

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