The acceleration of quantum computing from a theoretical to a functional reality is beginning to feel as fast as supercomputers themselves. This rapid pace of advancement brings a new urgency to preparedness. Agencies across all levels of government, as well as government-adjacent commercial organizations, are preparing for both the opportunities and risks introduced by a post-quantum world.

Federal

The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) includes 11 amendments related to quantum computing preparedness. The focus areas of these amendments include:

• Mandating defense-specific strategy for quantum readiness.
• Accelerating the implementation of quantum information science (QIS) technologies across Department of Defense (DoD) operations and missions.
• Cultivating a workforce that is fluent in quantum physics-powered systems.
• Examining the risk of quantum computing to GPS systems while also exploring how quantum sensor-enabled GPS technologies can be leveraged in department operations.
• Establishing a Quantum Capabilities and Competition Office within the DoD to coordinate, lead, and direct the Department's quantum technology efforts.
• Creating a Quantum Communications Corridor to serve as a network that connects certain defense installations, national laboratories, and universities working on DoD research.
• Identifying what technologies that leverage quantum computing can be exploited by remote systems and could enable "offensive cyber operations."

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